According to recent reports, Manchester City could pull out of the deal to sign West Ham United midfielder Lucas Paquetá. Originally seen as the main target to replace Ilkay Gündogan, who is set to join Barcelona in the summer, negotiations were complicated when legal issues surrounding Paquetá arose.
The Brazilian is under investigation for alleged breaches of betting rules, which has led to uncertainty over his eligibility and the possible imposition of sanctions. Although the case has not yet been resolved, Paquetá continued to be a standout figure in West Ham’s squad this season, contributing five goals and one assist in 18 appearances.
Lucas Paquetá is staying at West Ham
Although there is a theoretical contract for Paquetá to join Manchester City for a fee of around £85 million, FootballTransfers’ report suggests that Pep Guardiola’s club could change course if the investigation is not resolved quickly. With City second in the table after 13 league games, the need to strengthen the midfield becomes more pressing.
Guardiola and his coaching team could be considering alternative options, with City rumored to be interested in Bayern Munich’s Serge Gnabry, a versatile playmaker who could offer solutions on the flanks. The situation could also impact West Ham’s stance on Paquetá’s asking price, with the London club potentially having to give in to market pressures despite the Brazilian’s contract running until 2027.