And then Paqueta’s former club Flamengo threw their hat into the mix in the race to sign the 28-year-old Hammer.

Paqueta is said to be desperate to join Flamengo and he has apparently made that very clear to the West Ham owners.

Lucas Paqueta to Flamengo twist with Tottenham bid revealed

It’s obvious to see that Paqueta wants to return to his homeland.

He didn’t play against Queens Park Rangers on Sunday, due to injury … apparently.

As things stand, the former Lyon midfielder joining his former club Flamengo appears to be the most likely outcome in the January transfer window.

However, Flamengo are said to be only willing to go up to £26 million for the Brazil international (Sky Sports).

Brazilian journalist Rodrigo Mattos claims that Tottenham have submitted a £50 million bid for Paqueta.

Is it any wonder why the Hammers don’t want to sell him to Flamengo?

Nuno Espirito Santo’s stance on Lucas Paqueta

While selling a player to Tottenham for the second time in six months would be far from ideal for West Ham, the chance for the owners to potentially double their money will obviously be one they won’t want to miss out on.

Lucas Paqueta ‘wants to leave West Ham’ in the midst of a relegation battle – what’s your reaction?!

What was the point in this then? 🤔