Paqueta Seeking January Departure from West Ham to Join Flamengo

Brazilian midfielder Lucas Paqueta is eager to leave West Ham and join Flamengo, with the Brazilian club prepared to pay £26m for his services. Paqueta is willing to accept a salary reduction to return to his homeland. However, West Ham, who are facing relegation, are hesitant to let go of one of their key players. Despite two Premier League clubs showing interest in Paqueta, his priority is to return to Brazil. The transfer window in Brazil remains open until March, but West Ham have yet to receive a formal offer for the 28-year-old, who became the club's record signing after joining from Lyon in August 2022 for £51m. Paqueta's absence from Sunday's FA Cup win over QPR and his presence at West Ham's training ground on Monday have sparked speculation about his future. It is understood that regardless of West Ham's decision, Paqueta will not be playing for the club next season. With his contract set to expire in the summer of 2027, and an option to extend for another year, Paqueta's future remains uncertain. Having been cleared of spot-fixing charges in July following a two-year investigation, Paqueta's career is now back on track.