West Ham star Lucas Paqueta and boss Nuno Espirito Santo with money floating at London Stadium.
Credit: Manh Tung, Breaking Media
Declan Carr
Wed 29 October 2025 19:10, UK
Lucas Paqueta is in danger of ripping up his status at West Ham.
Paqueta has made over 100 appearances for West Ham, and is considered one of the best players in their modern history.
Paqueta nearly moved to Aston Villa in the summer, and was also linked with a loan switch to Flamengo, where he started his career.
However, he remained at the London Stadium, and has been a part of a dismal side which is in genuine relegation danger.
London Stadium, West Ham
Credit: Imago
Lucas Paqueta wants West Ham exit
Paqueta has been linked with a West Ham exit again, after a move failed to materialise in the summer.
MORE WEST HAM STORIES
A report from The Times on 28 October claimed that Paqueta wants to leave Rush Green when the transfer market reopens in January.
Rather than help the Irons fight against relegation and see out his contract, which runs until 2027, he wants to move elsewhere, in what would be the ultimate betrayal.
Why Paqueta should help West Ham stay in the Premier League
Paqueta should want to stick with the Hammers and help them to ensure top-flight survival, especially after how they stuck by him through the hardest period of his career.
The Brazil star was reportedly under mental anguish during the FA hearing into the alleged betting offences, and the E20 club had his back the whole way.
The investigation started in August 2023 and hampered an £80million move to Manchester City
The hearing lasted 24 months and Paqueta was eventually found innocent of the majority of charges in July 2025
He was found guilty of two misconduct charges for failing to provide information, with punishment yet to be decided upon
They could have banished him and severed ties with the 27-year-old, but they supported him and provided legal help during the investigation.
He owes the Irons, for that support, at the very least, he could try and help them retain their Premier League status, rather than departing when they were in trouble.
If he achieved that, then most people involved with the club would not have an issue with him departing in the summer.
If he departs in the winter and Nuno Espirito Santo’s side get relegated, he will be regarded as a traitor, as he has left them hanging, when they refused to do the same to him.
Enjoyed this article? Stay connected with all the latest West Ham United news, updates, and behind-the-scenes content by following us on our new Instagram account –@westhamzone247