Lucas Paquetá appears increasingly close to ending his West Ham United spell as Brazilian giants Flamengo intensify efforts to bring the midfielder back home with an improved £35.8 million offer. Negotiations between the two clubs have gathered momentum in recent days, with optimism growing in Brazil that a deal can be concluded before the transfer window closes.
For West Ham, the situation presents a complex dilemma: balancing Paquetá’s clear desire to leave England against the club’s urgent need to avoid relegation from the Premier League. As talks progress, the future of one of their most technically gifted players hangs in the balance.
Flamengo’s Renewed Push for Paquetá
Flamengo have submitted a fresh £35.8 million bid in an effort to secure the return of the 28-year-old Brazil international. While West Ham are yet to formally accept the offer, sources close to the negotiations suggest discussions are moving in a positive direction, particularly around the structure and timing of payments.
The Rio de Janeiro club are keen to add Paquetá to their squad as soon as possible, viewing him as a marquee signing capable of elevating their domestic and continental ambitions. Flamengo’s confidence has been boosted by the player’s openness to the move and his strong emotional ties to the club where he began his professional career.
West Ham’s Stance and Relegation Concerns
Despite the progress in talks, West Ham have not fully softened their position. The Premier League side have previously indicated they would prefer to sell Paquetá only if he returns on loan for the remainder of the season, allowing him to contribute to their survival fight.
Currently sitting 18th in the league table and five points adrift of safety, the Hammers believe Paquetá could play a vital role in their bid to stay up. His technical ability and experience are viewed internally as assets that could prove decisive during the closing months of the campaign.
Player Disillusionment and Injury Setback
Paquetá’s determination to leave England has been shaped by a challenging period off the pitch. The midfielder has admitted to growing disillusioned with life in the country following accusations of spot-fixing by the Football Association. Although he was cleared by an independent disciplinary commission last summer, the episode left a lasting impact.
In recent weeks, Paquetá has missed West Ham’s last three matches due to a minor back injury. While the issue is not considered serious, it has further complicated matters as the club weigh the benefits of retaining an unsettled player against the advantages of a clean break.
Managerial View and Divided Opinion at the Club
West Ham manager Nuno Espírito Santo has publicly maintained that he expects Paquetá to feature for the club again, suggesting the door is not yet closed on reconciliation. However, there is a growing sense within parts of the club’s hierarchy that granting the player his wish to return to Brazil may be the most pragmatic solution.
The Hammers have seen a lift in mood after three consecutive wins in all competitions, but concerns remain about squad balance and long-term planning. Internal debates continue over whether keeping a reluctant player aligns with the club’s broader objectives.
Transfer Funds and Squad Rebuilding Plans
A sale of Paquetá would significantly boost West Ham’s transfer budget, allowing further reinforcements before the window shuts. The club have already invested up to £47.5 million in strikers Pablo Felipe and Taty Castellanos, but Nuno is keen to strengthen other areas.
Plans are in place to recruit a goalkeeper, a defender and a midfielder, particularly with Argentina international Guido Rodríguez set to join Valencia after agreeing to terminate his contract by mutual consent. Nuno has stressed the need to rebalance the squad following years of uneven recruitment, viewing the Paquetá deal as a potential turning point
