West Ham midfielder Lucas Paqueta and manager Graham Potter in a circular inset.
Credit: Imago
Pranav Shahaney
Sat 30 August 2025 9:00, UK
Lucas Paqueta could still leave West Ham before the transfer window closes on 1 September.
The Brazilian still has two more years left to run on his deal at the London Stadium and there is the option to extend it by another 12 months.
Paqueta appeared to commit his future to West Ham after his gesture against Chelsea, but an offer on the table could change things.
Lucas Paqueta running for West Ham.
Credit: Imago
Aston Villa propose £50m deal for Lucas Paqueta
Aston Villa want to sign Paqueta as they want to build a squad capable of competing on multiple fronts and also help them qualify for the Champions League.
Unai Emery’s side are eyeing a last-gasp move for the 28-year-old, who has made 55 appearances for Brazil thus far.
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West Ham signed Paqueta for £51million back in 2022 and will be looking to recoup all or most of it if they part ways with him.
That could happen before the window closes, as The Daily Mail reported in its print edition on 30 August that Villa are proposing a loan deal with an obligation to buy.
They are willing to offer an initial £5million fee to sign Paqueta on loan for the rest of the season and pay £45million more next summer to secure his services on a permanent basis, taking the total package to £50million.
However, the Hammers are only keen on a permanent deal for the Brazilian.
West Ham manager Graham Potter anxiously watches on from the dugout
Credit: Imago
West Ham have to retain Lucas Paqueta
West Ham must retain Paqueta to maintain midfield stability and avoid a disastrous start to the season under Graham Potter.
With the transfer deadline looming, allowing Paqueta to depart now, amid intense interest from Aston Villa, would leave scant time to secure a Premier League-ready replacement.
Lucas Paqueta In all competitions 2022/23
Appearances 43
Goals 5
Assists 7
Paqueta had a good first season.
Recent signings like Matheus Fernandes and Soungoutou Magassa highlight the club’s ongoing rebuild, but scouting, negotiating and integrating someone to replace Paqueta demands months, not days; rushed alternatives risk underperformance or failure to adapt to the league’s intensity.
Fans, already frustrated by Mohammed Kudus’ sale to rivals Tottenham and early defeats, desperately hope Paqueta stays, viewing him as a creative linchpin cleared of spot-fixing charges and committed to the Hammers despite his uncertain form.
His exit could erode supporter trust further, jeopardising squad morale.
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