- West Ham United – Storm Clouds Gather Over Lucas Paquetá’s Future
West Ham United are finding themselves in deep trouble this season — and now one of their key players might add fuel to the fire. The club’s dealings over Lucas Paquetá have moved from uneasy rumours to genuine concern, with the Brazilian midfielder’s future looking increasingly uncertain amid a torrid campaign.
A season gone off the rails
West Ham currently sit second-bottom of the Premier League, with just four points from nine matches — a shocking return for a club used to mid-table stability or better. (thetimes.com)
The relegation threat is no longer theoretical — it’s a looming reality.
For a club battling not just for points but for survival, losing one of their most influential players would be a catastrophic blow. Yet that’s exactly the scenario they might be facing.
Paquetá’s importance – and the worry lines
Paquetá has started all nine league games this term and chipped in with two goals. (TEAMtalk) His contract runs until 2027 (with an option for another year) — on paper, that gives West Ham the upper hand. (TEAMtalk)
But insiders are now saying that despite the clause, the “no-sale” stance may be cracking. According to transfer specialist Dean Jones (via TEAMtalk):
“The constant speculation … makes me believe he is now getting itchy feet … the noises are getting louder that he is keen to go.” (TEAMtalk)
The worry for the club: if Paquetá wants out, they could be forced into a decision while in a relegation fight — and in a weak bargaining position.
Interest and risk
Clubs such as Aston Villa, Tottenham Hotspur and even the powerhouse Manchester City have been linked with the midfielder. (TEAMtalk)
If Paquetá does push for a move, West Ham face a serious dilemma:
- Sell and cash in — but undermine their survival hopes.
- Hold firm and risk unrest, or the player’s value dropping further.
- Let things drift and risk the player leaving for less or walking away later.
One insider addressed it bluntly:
“It’s a pretty worrying time for their fans.” (TEAMtalk)
Why now? And what’s at stake?
Three key factors are stacking up:
- Poor team form – The club’s results are alarming; the stress of survival is already high.
- Restricted budget – With limited funds to strengthen, losing a starter would intensify problems. (TEAMtalk)
- Player ambition – Paquetá’s loyalty is real, but he may feel the time is now to step up, especially with outside interest mounting.
If the player leaves now, West Ham do not just lose a creative spark — they potentially lose morale, leadership and resilience. Survival fights require every ounce of squad cohesion.
The window ahead and decisive months
While a January exit for Paquetá isn’t confirmed yet, speculation suggests West Ham must brace for the possibility. The club has already stated they don’t intend to sell him or another key asset, Jarrod Bowen, in the mid-season window. (TEAMtalk)
Yet, in football, words only go so far — the context matters. With West Ham’s current league position and limited financial mobility, they may find themselves negotiating from a weak position.
What can the club do?
- Re-assert commitment: The board must publicly strengthen Paquetá’s position, reaffirm his place, and communicate ambition clearly.
- Stabilise results: Immediate improvement in the league is vital to reduce pressure and retain belief both in-house and among the fanbase.
- Plan for contingencies: While holding onto Paquetá should be the priority, managerial and sporting directors must prepare for scenarios where he departs — especially if an offer arrives.
Final Word
West Ham’s season was already sliding into danger — but now a major off-field concern threatens to tip the balance. Paquetá’s future isn’t just a transfer matter; it’s a survival issue. For a club fighting relegation, losing such a player could be the difference between staying up and going down.
As the weeks progress, all eyes will be on the London Stadium not just for goals — but for signals. Because in this kind of situation, the message the club sends might matter as much as the player they keep (or lose).
