In a recent report from Chronicle Live, it is being mentioned that Lucas Paqueta of Olympique Lyon, who has been linked with a move to Newcastle United, has a release clause of £60m. It is understood that the French giants are demanding a fee worth over £68m which would take away a huge sum out of the Magpies’ transfer budget.
Paqueta’s Impressive Numbers For Olympique Lyon This Season
Lucas Paqueta has enjoyed a solid campaign at Lyon. He has proved his worth this season after producing plenty of impressive displays in the central areas of the pitch. He has scored 11 goals and created 7 assists over 44 appearances across all fronts.
The Rio de Janeiro-born sensation has established himself as a regular feature under Peter Bosz. He has been efficient in the midfield after averaging 2.5 shots, 1.2 key passes, 1.8 tackles and 2.3 dribbles in Ligue 1 this season. He has even been decent with his ball distribution, completing 79.6% of his attempted passes in the French top-flight (stats via whoscored).
Should Newcastle United Move In For Paqueta This Summer?
The 24-year-old midfielder has the ability to make some decent runs down the midfield, given his pace and excellent ball skills. He can engineer some clear-cut goal-scoring chances for his teammates in front of the goal. Furthermore, the Brazilian is also comfortable holding the ball and distributing possession in the attacking third of the field.
He is primarily an attacking midfielder but remains versatile enough to feature as a right-sided wide player or in the right-wing position when needed. He tends to track back and contribute heavily in the defence, which makes him a good fit at the holding positions as well. It is of no doubt that his brilliance would make the Magpies’ midfield a force to be reckoned with. Upon his arrival, he would also be reunited with Bruno Guimaraes and continue a beautiful partnership at St. James Park.
However, an asking price worth £68m would make it difficult for David Howe to pursue his signature as that would significantly impact their finances. Newcastle United need to focus on the areas they lack and investing in the midfield would not be wise considering that Guimaraes, Joelinton, Jonjo Shelvey, Joe Willock and Sean Longstaff have all fared well near the end of this season. Thus, Lucas Paqueta’s arrival at Tyneside remains uncertain if Howe decides to invest in the problem areas.
