As news broke last night that Lucas Paquetá wanted to leave West Ham in January, the player himself issued a cryptic response.
The Brazilian posted a picture of himself and his two sons wearing West Ham kits, accompanied by a laughing emoji. The message seemed clear — “I love West Ham, and the rumours are false.” At least, that’s how many fans interpreted it.
Personally, I believe Paquetá does want to leave — and who can blame him? At the start of the season, he used his social media to assure fans he’d stay for one more year. Therefore, it’s really just a matter of timing — whether he goes in January or next summer, he’s clearly planning his exit.
Most Read on West Ham News
Nuno Espirito Santo making a decision on Lucas Paqueta
Nuno has a big decision to make as West Ham face a huge January transfer window
Sell Now or Gamble Later?
Aston Villa’s rejected £50 million package for the 28-year-old during the summer transfer window raises a fair question — are West Ham getting £50 million worth of performances from him?
After the latest reports, pundit Simon Lewis didn’t mince his words:
“Paquetá is a shadow of his former self. He tries, but it’s just not working. He also commits the mortal sin of gifting stupid goals. I don’t think he’s doing West Ham any good — sell him in January.”
Personally, I thought the Hammers’ record signing was our best player against Leeds United, but that’s not often the case. Nuno Espirito Santo desperately needs pace and energy if he’s going to rescue this side from relegation — and £50 million could go a long way.
With Paquetá likely to leave at the end of the campaign anyway, the dilemma is simple: are West Ham more likely to stay up by keeping him or by cashing in and funding a January rebuild?
Of course, £50 million alone won’t cut it. David Sullivan and Daniel Křetínský will need to dig into their own pockets. But with a £100 million war-chest, Nuno might just have a fighting chance — assuming his bizarre tactical experiments have finally come to an end.
Have your say in the poll below: Would you sell Paquetá in January?
Would You Sell Paqueta For £50m in January
No, West Ham have more chance of staying up with him in the team
No, West Ham have more chance of staying up with him in the team
Vote
Yes, the money will help bring in more effective players
Yes, the money will help bring in more effective players
Vote|