West Ham planning to take FA to court over potential lifetime ban of Lucas Paqueta | OneFootball

West Ham United are reportedly planning to take the Football Association (FA) to court over Lucas Paqueta’s potential lifetime ban.

The 26-year-old was charged with breaking betting rules in May after being accused of deliberately picking up yellow cards in four Premier League matches.

The Brazilian has denied any wrongdoing in relation to the spot-fixing charges, and he will be available to play for the Hammers until the disciplinary process is completed.

The FA has recommended that Paqueta be banned for life if found guilty of the charges.

The Sun claims West Ham are now planning to go to the Court of Arbitration for Sport in Lausanne to prevent that from happening.

The club are questioning the FA’s jurisdiction over the matter as the suspicious betting linked to the forward took place in Brazil.

They also argue that it is unreasonable for Paqueta to lose his career over the charges.

He has been one of Wesy Ham’s most important players since joining the club in 2022.

Paqueta made 43 matches in all competitions last season, bagging eight goals and seven assists.

Manchester City were reportedly impressed with his performances and were ready to activate his £85 million release clause this summer.

However, City are unlikely to pursue a deal following the alleged betting scandal.

Stats from Transfermarkt.