Pep Guardiola is looking to make a second summer signing, and the Premier League club is “likely” to accept the £80 million transfer bid from Manchester City
Manchester City might sign West Ham player Lucas Paqueta this summer if Pep Guardiola’s side renews its interest in the midfielder.
The 26-year-old was ready to go from the London Stadium to the Etihad Stadium last summer after Manchester City and West Ham agreed on an £80 million deal, but the transfer was called off after a bombshell probe.
The FA and FIFA initiated an investigation over illicit bets placed in Brazil, scuttling any potential transfer.
Paqueta, who has an £85 million release clause that becomes activated in 2024, joined West Ham from Lyon in 2022 for a club record £51 million, helping the Hammers win the UEFA Europa Conference League last season.
Despite being absent due to injury, the Brazilian has contributed directly to seven Premier League goals in 18 appearances this season.
Paqueta was directly involved in 12 goals in 41 appearances for David Moyes’ side last season, and he might match or exceed that total this season.
Those figures may entice Manchester City to renew their interest in the midfielder, with the Sky Blues linked with a variety of prospects and likely to strengthen their midfield during the summer transfer window.
According to Football Insider, West Ham are ‘expected’ to accept a summer offer from Manchester City for Paqueta, assuming Pep Guardiola decides to sign the 28-year-old, depending on the conclusion of the current investigation.
The inquiry into potential betting violations is apparently nearing completion, and West Ham will’soon’ learn the results.
City are’still keen’ to sign the Brazil international this summer, and are ‘unlikely’ to face opposition from east London if the Blues meet the Hammers’ transfer fee.
Kalvin Phillips, an England midfielder on loan at the London Stadium until the end of the season after leaving Manchester City in January, might be utilised in a transfer.
City have also been connected with Bayern Munich midfielder Joshua Kimmich, and they are expected to recruit fellow Brazilian Savio from within the City Football Group.
