‘Nearing an Exit’: Surprise Report Suggests £42m Star Could Leave West Ham Within 20 Days

Lucas Paquetá has been a puzzling figure for West Ham since joining the club two and a half years ago.

A player of undeniable talent, he has shown flashes of brilliance but has also delivered frustratingly inconsistent performances.

Things took a dramatic turn in the summer of 2023 when reports surfaced that Paquetá was under investigation for alleged breaches of betting regulations.

Internally, there are growing concerns at the London Stadium that if found guilty, he could face a lifetime ban from football.

As the uncertainty surrounding his future continues, it has been revealed that West Ham’s owners were open to allowing Paquetá to leave the club.

While he remains a Hammers player for now, that situation could change sooner rather than later.

Lucas Paquetá’s Future Takes a New Twist

Both West Ham and Paquetá have endured a turbulent 18 months, yet clarity on his fate remains elusive.

It is still uncertain whether the Brazilian international will be sanctioned for alleged betting infractions.

However, what is becoming increasingly likely is his departure from East London—potentially for a return to familiar surroundings.

According to Brazilian outlet Lance, Paquetá’s agent has engaged in discussions with Flamengo regarding a potential move back to the Maracanã.

Reports suggest that an exit from West Ham is becoming more imminent by the day.

Given the circumstances, it would not be surprising to see Paquetá, now 27, leave the Hammers at the end of the season.

However, before any transfer materializes, he must first await the outcome of the investigation into his betting allegations.

Has Paquetá Justified His Price Tag?

West Ham signed Paquetá from Lyon in the summer of 2022 for a fee of approximately £42 million, with performance-based add-ons potentially increasing that figure to £50 million.

Unfortunately, he has struggled to justify that investment.

There have been moments of magic—his perfectly weighted through-ball to Jarrod Bowen in the Europa Conference League final was one of the defining moments of West Ham’s triumph.

Yet, overall, his performances have lacked the consistency expected of a marquee signing.

Time for West Ham and Paquetá to Part Ways

Despite his undeniable ability, Paquetá’s time at West Ham has been marked by more costly errors than game-winning contributions.

His commitment to the cause is evident, and there is no questioning his effort.

However, he may not fit the vision of new manager Graham Potter moving forward.

If the club were to receive an offer in the region of £20 million, it would make sense to sell him. Given that the Brazilian transfer window remains open until February 28th, a move to Flamengo could be a viable option.

Ultimately, a return to Brazil seems like the best solution for all parties involved.

It would provide Paquetá with a fresh start while allowing West Ham to move forward without the ongoing uncertainty surrounding his future.