Lucas Paquetá’s Manchester City move from West Ham on hold due to FA and FIFA betting investigation | OneFootball

According to Sky Sports News, Lucas Paquetá’s move from West Ham to Manchester City is currently on hold due to concerns over an FA and FIFA betting investigation- the former of which will not be commenting on the matter.

It is believed that the investigation is surrounding bets placed in the player’s home country of Brazil, whilst Paquetá has said the bets were not placed by him and ‘insists’ that he does not bet.

A deal between the two English sides were close to agreeing an £80m deal with one another, and, although negotiations have currently stopped, the move could still go through if the issue is resolved swiftly.

Pep Guardiola is said to always have been a keen admirer of the 25-year-old, and his side began pursuing a move they look to strengthen their midfield before the transfer window closes- a need which has become more pressing following the ‘serious injury’ suffered by Kevin De Bruyne against last Friday, which is expected to keep the Belgian out for ‘a few months’.

The Brazilian international moved to David Moyes’ side just last summer for a fee in the region of €42m, and, despite initially taking time to settle into his new side, lived up to his price tag in the second half of the season- proving pivotal in leading his side to their first ever European trophy, assisting Jarrod Bowen’s last minute winner against Fiorentina in the Europa Conference League final.

Furthermore, in his 28 Premier League appearances, the attacking midfielder scored four and assisted three- consistently demonstrating his excellent creativity, ability to progress play, and tenacity out of possession; all traits which are vital for Guardiola midfielders to possess.

Whilst the investigation and transfer saga continues, Paquetá is fully focused on playing for West Ham- who will host Mauricio Pochettino’s Chelsea this Sunday in a London derby.

Travis Levison | Get Football