Crystal Palace are eyeing a surprise summer move for West Ham United midfielder Lucas Paqueta, journalist Steve Kay has claimed.
The Eagles have reportedly identified the Brazil international as a ‘major target’ to replace Eberechi Eze, who remains a firm target for Arsenal ahead of the transfer deadline on 1 September.
Palace boss Oliver Glasner is believed to have informed chairman Steve Parish that he wants to sign Paqueta should Eze depart for North London, while Arsenal winger Leandro Trossard has also been earmarked as an option.
West Ham are said to be open to selling Paqueta before the window shuts, but their asking price remains unclear following a difficult season for the Brazilian.
Crystal Palace Eyeing Lucas Paqueta
As a replacement for Arsenal target Eze
Lucas Paqueta in action for West Ham United
According to Kay, Paqueta’s current transfer value stands at around €63m (£55m), but West Ham are believed to be prepared to sell the 27-year-old at the ‘right price’.
Paqueta was recently cleared of spot-fixing allegations following a two-year investigation, which seemingly had a negative impact on his performances at the London Stadium last season.
Statistically, the £150,000-a-week star endured his worst-ever Premier League campaign since joining West Ham from Lyon in 2022, registering just four goal contributions in 33 appearances.
Palace are anticipating a busy end to the summer transfer window, with uncertainty remaining over the futures of both Eze and Marc Guehi.
While Eze continues to attract interest from Arsenal, Guehi has emerged as a key target for Liverpool, who are in the market for a new central defender following Jarell Quansah’s departure to Bayer Leverkusen.
Lucas Paqueta's West Ham Stats (2024/25 Premier League)
Games
Goals
Assists
Minutes played
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Statistics courtesy ofTransfermarkt. Correct as of 0 2 -08-25.