Manchester City are expected to make an official offer in the summer market for West Ham midfielder Lucas Paqueta. Manchester City leaders were ready to bring the Brazilian to the Etihad last summer, but the latter was punished by the English Football Association for breaking the rules regarding the placement of sports bets. Now the 26-year-old is expected to be acquitted of the charges and this could pave the way for his transfer to Manchester City.
According to Football Insider sources, West Ham will not prevent the midfielder from leaving if he wants to, and if City come up with a satisfactory financial offer. The board of "citizens" had agreed in principle with the leaders of West Ham, to pay 80 million euros for Paqueta's card. However, following the news of the Brazilian's transgressions, Manchester City managers were forced to focus on other alternatives, specifically Matheus Nunes of Wolves.
Now, the way for Paqueta to join City is open again. The player has been activated normally, both with West Ham and the Brazilian national team despite the problems with sports betting. The player has played a total of 33 games this season in all competitions, and has scored 7 goals and 6 assists.
The Brazilian joined West Ham from French side Lyon in 2022 and has an active contract with the club until 2027, with the option to renew for an extra year. Paqueta is one of the most important players in David Moyes' team and will undoubtedly be a huge loss for the club if he leaves.
Meanwhile at Manchester City, the need for a midfielder is ever greater. Last season, Gundogan and Mahrez left the Etihad, while this season, Kevin de Bruyne has constantly suffered from injuries. Consequently, Guradiola wants to have more options in the midfield department, and Paqueta is a perfect alternative for the "citizens".
