It has been reported that Manchester City could seal the deal to sign Lucas Paqueta from West Ham United for £80 million.
This comes from journalist Graeme Bailey, who gave TEAMtalk an insight into the 25-year-old’s future, after it was claimed on Thursday that David Moyes’ side were keen on a fee in excess of £88 million.
Now, it has been revealed that Manchester City may finally be closing in on a deal to sign Lucas Paqueta.
Journalist: Manchester City could now seal Lucas Paqueta transfer for £80 million fee
Branded as ‘mind-boggling’ by Declan Rice (via Evening Standard), it seemed like the Brazilian could have been a smart pickup to provide cover in both midfield and right-wing after the departures of Ilkay Gundogan and Riyad Mahrez.
Despite Pep Guardiola reported to have ‘always been a fan’ of the versatile attacker, a revelation had emerged that the Hammers were only willing to part ways with him for a fee north of £85 million.
But now, Graeme Bailey has revealed that Manchester City could finally get their hands on Lucas Paqueta if they shell out an £80 million fee for his services.
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“I can confirm that sources close to the player admit that a move away from West Ham is something very much Paqueta is looking at. There is no beating around the bush, Paqueta does not enjoying playing for West Ham”, he said.
Graeme Bailey elaborated on how discontent Manchester City target Lucas Paqueta is at West Ham, saying, “The belief within the club is that Paqueta inspired their Europa League Conference win at the end of last season in spite of David Moyes, rather than because of him. Paqueta wants Champions League football ideally. He is a starter with Brazil and he believes he is capable of much more.”
Bailey concluded, “Man City have now held talks over a deal for Paqueta and whilst West Ham don’t want to sell, the feeling within the club is that if someone gets close to £80 million, that could be the price.”
Even if Manchester City persuade West Ham to sell Lucas Paqueta at a fee close to £80 million, one cannot help but feel that even that would be an overpay.