August 08, (THEWILL) – Manchester City have made a £70 million verbal offer for West Ham United midfielder, Lucas Paqueta, according to sources monitored by THEWILL.
The English Premier League champions see the 25-year-old Brazilian as a potential replacement for Ilkay Gundogan and Riyad Mahrez, who have both left the club this summer. Despite City’s bid, West Ham does not intend to sell Paqueta and have turned down the offer.
The Hammers signed the midfielder from Lyon last summer for £36 million and see him as a key part of manager David Moyes’ plans going forward. Paqueta had an impressive debut season for West Ham, helping the club win the UEFA Europa Conference League. However, Paqueta is reportedly concerned about having to adapt his natural game to fit into Moyes’ counterattacking system.
Paris Saint-Germain and clubs in Saudi Arabia have shown interest in Paqueta this summer, but West Ham have been adamant they want to keep the Brazilian. The Hammers would only consider an offer they deem “too good to turn down” in their stubborn stance to ensure they retain the services of the Brazilian for the incoming season.
Newcastle United also retain a long-standing interest in Paqueta but may struggle to do a deal due to Financial Fair Play restrictions. As things stand, Man City could return with an improved bid for the midfielder, but West Ham’s stance is that he is not for sale during this transfer window.
About the Author
Jude Obafemi is a versatile senior Correspondent at THEWILL Newspapers, excelling in sourcing, researching, and delivering sports news stories for both print and digital publications.
