Lucas Paqueta Lined Up for Record-Shattering Transfer Away from West Ham

West Ham United's star midfielder Lucas Paqueta is pushing for a dramatic exit to his boyhood club Flamengo amid the Hammers' relegation battle, potentially shattering records for a Brazilian return.[1][4][6]

The 28-year-old Brazilian, West Ham's £51m record signing from Lyon in 2022, has officially informed the club of his desire to leave in January, driven by a craving for a fresh start ahead of the 2026 World Cup.[1][3][4] Paqueta has already agreed personal terms with Flamengo and is willing to take a pay cut, despite 18 months left on his contract (with an option to extend).[1][6] He was absent from Sunday's FA Cup win over QPR as speculation intensified.[6][7]

Flamengo, where Paqueta rose to prominence, are preparing fresh talks after an initial approach was rejected. They're ready to bid around £26m-£35m (€30m), but West Ham value him near £50m and prefer a European sale—Tottenham, Aston Villa, Chelsea, and others have shown interest, though Paqueta's heart is set on Rio.[4][5][6] Sources suggest Flamengo views this as a record-breaking homecoming deal.[1]

Manager Nuno Espírito Santo opposes the move, seeing Paqueta (4 goals, 1 assist in 18 Premier League games) as key to survival—West Ham sit 18th, seven points from safety after a 10-match winless run.[3][4][5] Whispers of Paqueta "downing tools" persist, but the club urges him to stay until summer.[5] A sale could fund replacements like Brazilian winger Jorge from Cruzeiro.[7]

With the Brazilian window open until March and a personal deadline looming, tensions rise ahead of Tottenham clash. West Ham sources hint at sell-to-buy clauses complicating matters, but Paqueta won't play for them next season.[3][6] Flamengo eyes new negotiations soon.[1][5]

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