West Ham’s Strong Stance on Lucas Paquetá: Big-Money Interest But Reluctant to Sell

West Ham’s Strong Stance on Lucas Paquetá: Big-Money Interest But Reluctant to Sell

West Ham United’s position on Lucas Paquetá’s future has taken centre stage in the January 2026 transfer window, with a host of dramatic developments emerging around the Brazilian playmaker’s potential exit. Despite significant interest from abroad and the midfielder’s own desire to return to his boyhood club, the Hammers are currently standing firm — at least for now. (Hammers News)

The latest reported twist involves Flamengo, who have reportedly reached agreement with Paquetá on personal terms, opening the door for a possible move back to Brazil. Fabrizio Romano, a highly respected transfer insider, has confirmed that the player has cleared the personal terms hurdle and now awaits West Ham’s decision on sanctioning the transfer. Flamengo’s offer is said to be in the region of £34.7million–£35million, a sizable proposal but one that West Ham officials may still view as undervaluing their midfield maestro. (tribuna.com)

Despite the player’s clear interest in a departure and Flamengo’s emotional pull — given that Paquetá began his professional career there — West Ham United’s stance has not shifted towards an outright sale. Manager Nuno Espírito Santo and the board remain reluctant to let the 28-year-old leave mid-season, particularly with the club embroiled in a perilous fight against relegation. Losing such a key creative force could weaken their survival bid, and as such West Ham are reportedly prepared to do whatever they can to retain his services until at least the end of the campaign. (Hammers News)

This position was underlined by Paquetá being left out of West Ham’s recent FA Cup squad — a decision interpreted by many as a sign of tension between player and club, rather than acceptance of an imminent transfer. Paquetá’s exclusion, combined with his strong desire to return home, has fuelled speculation among supporters and pundits alike that his stay in east London might be coming to an end. (Talksport)

Yet, internally, there appears to be a dual narrative. On the one hand, the club recognises that Paquetá is one of their most influential players, capable of dictating games and providing crucial creativity. On the other, there has been some acknowledgement behind the scenes that if a deal is struck on acceptable financial terms, and the player is determined to leave, then West Ham may eventually relent—especially if reinvestment into the squad is feasible. Previous transfer chatter has even linked Saudi clubs and other Premier League sides with interest, suggesting that this saga could widen beyond just a Brazil return. (Yalla Shoot)

The current reported valuation — around £35m — is significantly lower than the £51m fee West Ham paid for him in 2022 and what might have been achievable in pre-pandemic market conditions or had earlier interest from top European clubs, like Manchester City, materialised. That previous potential move was derailed by external factors, including a lengthy FA investigation that was eventually resolved. Those events reportedly weighed heavily on Paquetá, contributing to his appetite for a fresh start. (tribuna.com)

For now, West Ham’s position remains one of reluctance to sell mid-season, prioritising the club’s stability and Premier League fight over cashing in on a prized asset. But with Paquetá pushing for a move and Flamengo reportedly ready to do business, the coming days may prove crucial in defining whether the Brazilian stays or departs the London Stadium in January. (Hammers News)

Would you like a concise summary or a short analysis of how this transfer could impact West Ham’s relegation battle? (I can tailor it to either focus on tactics or finances.)