Jack Grealish considered by Manchester City as makeweight for West Ham star | OneFootball

Manchester City may consider getting creative when it comes to their long-standing and existing interest in West Ham midfielder Lucas Paqueta, according to reports.

The Premier League giants are weighing up new strategies to finally land the Brazil international following his clearance from spot-fixing charges earlier this month.

A move for Paqueta collapsed in August 2023 – just as City prepared an £85 million transfer – when an FA investigation into alleged betting breaches came to light. But with that case now largely resolved, interest in the 27-year-old is seemingly gathering pace once again.

Manchester City officials have monitored Paqueta consistently and remain admirers of his technical skillset, positional flexibility, and natural flair – all of which align with Pep Guardiola’s tactical demands.

While City have already made moves in midfield this year – including the additions of Nico Gonzalez and Tijjani Reijnders – further adjustments could still be made, particularly as the large bulk of exits for more ageing names could happen 12 months down the line.

According to the information of Brazilian journalist Jorge Nicola, as translated and relayed by Sport Witness, Manchester City remain determined to sign West Ham’s Lucas Paqueta and rather than paying the full £50 million asking price, would offer a lower fee plus Jack Grealish.

It is further revealed that City officials had enquired about Paquetá in each of the last three transfer windows, and despite failed attempts due to the now-concluded FA betting investigation, the Etihad Stadium side have never fully walked away.

The inclusion of Grealish would represent a significant shift in City’s stance on the £100 million England international. While Grealish was instrumental in City’s treble-winning campaign in 2022/23, his impact diminished soon after due to injury and inconsistent form.

Manchester City are known to be open to loan offers for the 29-year-old this summer, with West Ham among the clubs monitoring his availability, and Everton the latest to open up formal talks over a potential deal with Etihad officials.

Though a straight-swap is unlikely given the differing values and wages involved, the concept of a makeweight deal – reducing City’s outlay while giving West Ham an immediate high-profile replacement – could be seen as a possible compromise.

It remains to be seen whether Jack Grealish himself would entertain such a move. A switch to the London Stadium would likely offer more regular playing time, but could be viewed as a step down from UEFA Champions League contention.

However, with competition fierce at Manchester City and the club evolving their wide-forward options, a fresh start may benefit both parties.