According to a report from Express, Lucas Paqueta is a top-priority acquisition for Manchester City, with two of their offers for the midfielder turned down by West Ham United. Their first bid of £70 million was rejected, followed by an increased offer of £87 million. However, reports suggest that West Ham are holding out for approximately £95 million to finalize the transfer.
Paqueta’s Impressive Debut Season With West Ham United
Paqueta made a strong impact during his inaugural season with West Ham United. Throughout the previous campaign, the Brazilian player showcased his talent with notable performances in the offensive zone. He managed to score four goals and provide three assists in 28 appearances for West Ham in the English top division.
He anchored the midfield well by averaging 2.5 tackles, 0.6 interceptions, 1.1 clearances, 1.9 shots, 1.2 dribbles and 1.1 key passes per 90 minutes in the Premier League. He was even been tidy when distributing the ball from midfield after making 80.2% of his attempted passes in league football (stats via whoscored).
Paqueta is under contract with the East London club until the summer of 2027. As a result, West Ham were unlikely to be willing to part with him during this summer transfer window. However, if City manage to meet their demands then the Brazilian ace could move to the Etihad before the transfer window comes to a close.
Can Guardiola Bring Him To Manchester City?
Lucas Paqueta stands as a gifted attacking midfielder with the potential to ascend among Europe’s elite. Proficient in dribbling, passing, and finishing, he possesses a keen ability to generate scoring opportunities for his teammates.
Paqueta’s adaptability shines, as he boasts versatility across various positions. His capabilities extend to functioning as an attacking midfielder, central midfielder, or even as a winger. This flexibility underscores his significance to West Ham, and his addition to Etihad would provide a similar advantage to Pep Guardiola.
In the event of Paqueta’s incorporation, City might opt to deploy Bernardo Silva as a right winger, a strategy frequently employed during their triumphant Treble-winning season. This tactical shift could also position Phil Foden in that role, while Paqueta’s presence would introduce expanded midfield possibilities alongside the talents of Kevin de Bruyne, Julian Alvarez, and the newly acquired Mateo Kovacic.
The financial resources of the Sky Blues are not wanting, evident from their limited activity in the transfer market since the window opened. Nevertheless, Guardiola must carefully evaluate the benefits of acquiring him for the significant sum that Hammers are requesting.
