It has been noted that the Brazilian media are becoming increasingly desperate in their reporting of the [Lucas Paquetá](https://www.claretandhugh.info/lucas-paqueta-bio/) saga over the past few days.
The general consensus from across the Atlantic appears to be that nasty West Ham are keeping their countryman against his will. While that may not be too far from the truth, it has led not only to a #FreePaqueta campaign, but also to some truly ludicrous [transfer](https://www.claretandhugh.info/west-ham-transfer-news/) links regarding his supposed replacement.
Yesterday, Brazilian outlets were full of reports claiming that West Ham had already identified a number of key targets to replace Paquetá. Clearly, whoever is writing this stuff has little or no understanding of how the Hammers actually operate in the transfer market, if they believe we are anywhere near that organised.
Brazilian Hysteria Meets West Ham Reality
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The truth of the matter is that until this morning, Hammers bosses were still attempting to persuade Paquetá to stay at the London Stadium, or at the very least negotiate a deal that would see him return on loan.
Therefore, when I read that Brazilian media were now suggesting West Ham had identified Mateo Kovačić of Manchester City as Paquetá’s replacement — and had even opened talks — it was difficult to take seriously.
Kovačić has made just one appearance for City this season and is certainly surplus to requirements at the Etihad. Unfortunately for West Ham, the creative midfielder is also listed as injured until mid-February, making any potential move a complete non-starter.
As a player, I really like him, but with so many desperate reports emerging from Brazil right now, it is increasingly hard to take any of this speculation seriously.