Having apparently pledged his future to [West Ham United](https://www.claretandhugh.info/the-real-reason-paquetas-50m-villa-deal-collapsed-report/) with that mime, the badge kiss and the glowing social media posts just two short weeks ago, Lucas Paquetá again set the keyboards clacking and tongues wagging with his _‘one more season’_ instagram post. Amongst all the faux anger, indignation and upset from a pretty sensitive West Ham fan base, there have been some less emotional responses to the Brazilian’s suggestion that he might be up for a deal next summer. What Premier League player isn’t? And better, perhaps, to announce it thus, rather than adopt the Alexander Isak non-co-operation route which will tar forever the relationship between Newcastle and one of their best-ever forwards.
Indeed, the sale of Paq-man next summer is by no means a foregone conclusion. Perhaps this is Paquetá’s way of trumpeting his return to form: All eyes will be on the Brazilian _and only if he thrives, along with his team, will the Hammers number 10 succeed_ in generating interest at the price West Ham will demand. As the _[express.co.uk](https://www.express.co.uk/sport/football/2107831/Lucas-Paqueta-transfer-news-West-Ham)_ puts it:
_“The suggestion is that Paqueta will seek to depart West Ham at the conclusion of this present campaign, though that **may hinge entirely on whether he experiences a successful spell under Graham Potter’s management or not.**.Paqueta is set to represent Brazil at next summer’s World Cup so the timeframe to enter negotiations with him is shorter than usual. Players have also been known to boost their value exponentially during a major international tournament and any interested clubs could see West Ham’s asking price rise “_
In short, a world class price demands a world class player: So if Paquetá wants his big money move next summer, he’ll have to demonstrate that he’s worth it. Which I look forward to witnessing over the 35 Premier League games yet to come this season. And a Wembley final with Paquetá pulling the strings? Why not. No better way to say farewell.