West Ham United are prepared to sanction a dramatic mid-season departure for star midfielder Lucas Paqueta, but only under a very specific set of conditions that would see him return to the club immediately.
The Complex Deal on the Table
Discussions are ongoing with Brazilian giants Flamengo, with the Hammers seeking a fee in the region of £40 million for the 28-year-old playmaker. The crucial stipulation from the London club is that any sale this month must include an agreement for Flamengo to loan Paqueta back to the London Stadium for the remainder of the Premier League season.
This unusual structure is driven by West Ham's precarious league position. Nuno Espirito Santo's side currently finds itself seven points adrift of safety, sitting below 17th-placed Nottingham Forest. The club's hierarchy views Paqueta as integral to their battle against relegation and is adamant about not weakening the squad during the critical January transfer window.
Paqueta's Push for a Return Home
The player's desire to return to his native Brazil has become increasingly clear. This was starkly demonstrated on Sunday when Paqueta refused to play in West Ham's FA Cup victory over Queens Park Rangers. His absence from the matchday squad was a clear signal of his intent to force a move.
This development follows West Ham's rejection of an earlier proposal from Flamengo earlier this week, which was valued at up to £30 million. The London club is holding firm on its valuation. It is worth noting that Paqueta was cleared of alleged breaches of the Football Association's betting regulations last year, removing a potential obstacle to any transfer.
West Ham's Defensive Recruitment Plans
As one major saga unfolds, West Ham are actively working on strengthening other areas of the squad. Newcastle United captain Jamaal Lascelles has emerged as a potential defensive target. The 32-year-old centre-back is expected to leave St James' Park this window, although Newcastle are prioritising covering their own defensive crisis first.
The Hammers' scouting network is casting a wide net. Also on their radar is Coventry City's highly-rated centre-back Bobby Thomas. The 24-year-old, a 6ft 4in former Burnley trainee, has impressed this season and attracted attention from several Premier League sides, including Everton.
Further options under consideration include Sporting Braga defender Bright Arrey-Mbi, a former Chelsea academy player. The club has also expressed interest in Chelsea goalkeeper Filip Jorgensen, who is keen on a move. However, a long-term target, Toulouse defender Charlie Cresswell, is now wanted by German side Wolfsburg.
The coming days will be pivotal for West Ham's season, balancing the need to manage a high-profile exit with the urgent requirement to bolster a squad fighting for survival.
