Lucas Paqueta: Explosive Revelation Emerges Amidst FA and FIFA Betting Probe – Exclusive Updates
Investigation ensues over alleged betting activity involving Lucas Paqueta, as he denies placing any bets himself Talks between Man City and West Ham for the midfielder remain on hold, while FA and FIFA are yet to comment on the matter West Ham's pursuit of Mohammed Kudus from Ajax is separate from Paqueta's future
Manchester City's discussions with West Ham regarding the acquisition of Lucas Paqueta have been suspended due to apprehensions surrounding an ongoing FA and FIFA inquiry into betting activities.
It is speculated that the investigation primarily revolves around Paqueta receiving bookings during matches, with wagers reportedly placed in Brazil. Consequently, the 25-year-old will be absent from his national team's forthcoming World Cup qualifiers against Peru and Bolivia in September.
Brazil's interim head coach, Fernando Diniz, expressed his admiration for Paqueta, stating that he is a player he truly admires. Diniz acknowledged the need for Paqueta to address certain issues and emphasized the importance of giving him the necessary time to do so. "He's a player I have a great fondness for," Diniz added.
Image:
Paqueta's stats from his first season at West Ham in all competitions, ranked against his team-mates
He was booked nine times for club and country last season.
Paqueta, who is willing to cooperate in any way with any investigation, says he has not placed any bets himself and is shocked by reports.
An £80m deal for Paqueta to join Man City has almost been agreed and could still happen if the issue is cleared up quickly.
In the meantime, Paqueta is focused on playing for West Ham.
The FA and Man City have declined to comment. We News has also approached FIFA for comment.
Moyes: Paqueta performed 'really well' in Chelsea win
Paqueta dismissed a challenging week with a late penalty goal in Sunday's 3-1 victory over Chelsea at home, which impressed Irons boss David Moyes. Highlighting the Brazilian's performance, Moyes acknowledged the support of the 65,000 fans who were cheering for Paqueta due to their awareness of his talent and the unique qualities he brings to the team.
"He is a really good player, a hard-working boy and I thought he performed really well."
On Paqueta being linked with Man City, Moyes said: "I'm only interested in how he performed."
Paqueta deal on hold - but not off
We News Dharmesh Sheth on the Transfer Show:
The deal is currently on hold but not cancelled, with the possibility of being revived once this issue is resolved promptly.
According to David Moyes, West Ham has turned down a bid from Manchester City. The valuation for him stands at £85 million or potentially higher.
Next summer, a release clause in his contract will be activated, granting West Ham the authority to set any price they desire. Additionally, he currently has four years remaining on his contract, with a possible extension for an extra year. It has been communicated to us that Paqueta's sole concentration is on his commitment to playing for West Ham.
West Ham pursuit of Kudus independent of Paqueta future
West Ham remain determined to sign Ajax midfielder Mohammed Kudus despite their initial bid being turned down. However, the pursuit of the Ghanaian player is completely separate from any decisions regarding Paqueta's future. Kudus recently played the full duration of Ajax's match against Excelsior, and the Dutch club is keen on retaining him, despite him approaching the end of his contract which has two more years left.
West Ham's Technical Director, Tim Steidten, recently traveled to the Netherlands for in-person discussions with Ajax. According to a reliable source, West Ham has received positive indications that the 23-year-old player is receptive to joining the club.
Mavropanos completes West Ham medical as club assess Lingard
Image:
Konstantinos Mavropanos is set to join West Ham from Stuttgart
Konstantinos Mavropanos has completed his West Ham United medical ahead of his £19m move from Stuttgart.
The 25-year-old was at the London Stadium on Sunday to watch West Ham's win over Chelsea.
The Hammers will initially pay Stuttgart £17m, with an additional £2m contingent upon performance. In the meantime, West Ham is evaluating Jesse Lingard, a former Nottingham Forest forward, who is currently a free agent, during training.
The 30-year-old's primary focus is to keep his fitness up - but a short-term deal has not been ruled out.
