Lucas Paqueta could 'definitely' leave West Ham as huge claim emerges | OneFootball

West Ham United midfielder Lucas Paqueta came close to departing in the summer, and journalist Dean Jones has revealed to GIVEMESPORT whether there's a chance of him getting a move in the near future, with David Moyes likely to want to keep him at the London Stadium.

The Brazil international has been exceptional for the Hammers over the last couple of seasons and could be considering taking the next step in his career. However, a deal fell through in the summer transfer window and Manchester City moved on to other targets, so there is an argument that he may have missed the boat on that one.

Paqueta was pushing for a move in the summer

Paqueta signed for West Ham last summer for a club-record fee of £51m from French side Lyon, as per Sky Sports. The Brazilian played a key role in helping the Hammers win the Europa Conference League last season, and his performances attracted the interest of the Champions of England.

The West Ham man agreed personal terms ahead of a move to the Etihad Stadium, with his current club demanding in the region of £95m to allow him to depart. A move failed to materialise and Pep Guardiola and his recruitment team opted to bring in Matheus Nunes in the middle of the park from Wolverhampton Wanderers. City moved on, potentially due to Paqueta being investigated by the FA for suspicious betting activities, which could still result in him being banned from playing football for a significant period.

Sky Sports reporter Dharmesh Sheth previously told GIVEMESPORT that a January transfer window move for Paqueta from Man City can't be ruled out, but it could depend on the outcome of the investigation into his betting activities. Whether Man City still need him after bringing in Nunes is another argument in itself, but Guardiola likes to have world-class players even sat on his bench.

Paqueta's performances in a West Ham shirt this season may tempt Man City to reignite their interest once again, but he certainly won't come cheap.

Dean Jones update at the London Stadium

Although the Hammers have started well this campaign, they're unlikely to be competing for a Champions League spot come the end of the season. As a result, Paqueta may continue to be considering taking the next step in his career, whether that be with Man City or another club competing in Europe's elite club competition.

Jones has suggested that Paqueta hasn't missed the boat for a move to Man City and they are still interested in the former Lyon midfielder. The journalist adds that Paqueta is going to keep aiming for the very top and he's done himself no harm with his performances so far this term. Speaking to GIVEMESPORT, Jones said...

David Moyes already has his replacement for the Brazilian

Although West Ham fans will be hoping to see their club investing the money they potentially receive for Paqueta, Moyes might already have his replacement in-house.

Mohammed Kudus joined the club during the summer transfer window and is slowly adapting to life in England. The Ghanaian plays in a similar role to Paqueta, primarily just behind the striker but can only play in a deeper role and out wide.

This would allow the Hammers to use the money to invest in other areas, making their squad stronger and deeper overall.