Manchester City's deal to sign Lucas Paqueta from West Ham is on hold.
The situation could change but one source has told We News that there is a 90 per cent chance the deal is off.
City and West Ham have engaged in discussions regarding the possible transfer of Paqueta, who expresses a strong desire to join the Premier League champions.
According to two sources, City, the reigning Premier League champions, have expressed willingness to offer £60m for the talented midfielder.
Paqueta's buyout clause
Despite having four years remaining on his West Ham contract, Paqueta could potentially leave if Manchester City were to make a formal bid. The talented player, who was signed by the Europa Conference League champions for £51m from Lyon just last August, remains open to the possibility of departing from his current club.West Ham have no intention of selling Paqueta this summer, regardless of the price. They believe that they would not have sufficient time to secure a replacement, especially with the Premier League commencing this weekend.
Paqueta's contract includes an £85m buyout clause; however, it cannot be activated until the following summer.
The prospect of working with Pep Guardiola makes a move to Manchester City hard to refuse, which is why players often find it challenging to turn it down. West Ham, on the other hand, have already bid farewell to their captain and midfielder Declan Rice, who joined Arsenal this summer for a staggering £105m.
'Man City could be career-making move for Paqueta'
South American football expert Tim Vickery speaking to Transfer Talk:
Lucas Paqueta's potential departure seems plausible, especially with West Ham acquiring James Ward-Prowse and potentially pursuing Mohammed Kudus from Ajax. This suggests that the club is making preparations for a transition.
For Paqueta, this opportunity could be a game-changer in his career. Approaching his 26th birthday, he boasts an impressive record of over 40 appearances for Brazil, highlighting his skill as an attacking midfielder. While lacking in speed, he excels as a versatile player.
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