Breaking: Man City agree personal terms with Lucas Paqueta
According to journalist Santi Aouna, Man City have agreed on personal terms with long-term target Lucas Paqueta for a potential summer transfer.
Man City and Lucas Paqueta Reach Personal Terms
City have been linked with a move for Paqueta for a while now. They even attempted to sign him last summer, reportedly making a bid worth £80 million. However, West Ham rejected the bid and the Brazilian midfielder stayed at the club.
He also recently spoke about his failed move to the Etihad, saying (via Goal):
“I have a lot of respect for West Ham. I’ve had a very good season and this has helped me a lot in my evolution in the Premier League. Out of respect for them, I have to remain focused on my work.”
There was also speculation around a potential case of a breach of gambling rules as an investigation is still going on Paqueta. He recently touched upon the investigation, saying:
“It’s been seven months since it’s been happened and I’m co-operating, doing what’s in my power so that it can be resolved.”
However, City appear set to make an attempt to sign him.
As per Santi Aouna, they have agreed terms about a long-term contract with the midfielder, including salary. They haven’t, however, spoken to West Ham yet for a potential transfer fee.
Signing Paqueta could be a big boost for Man City. The Brazilian has done well for West Ham this season, scoring eight goals and providing seven assists in 36 games across competitions. Overall, since arriving from Olympique Lyon in 2022, he has registered 13 goals and 14 assists in 77 games for the Hammers.
Paqueta has played for the likes of AC Milan and Flamengo in the past as well. He has won one UEFA Europa Conference League with West Ham and one Copa America with Brazil.
Also Read: Arsenal and West Ham’s European Battles Hold Key to Extra Premier League Champions League Spot?
Lucas Paqueta could replace Bernardo Silva at Man City
Man City could lose Bernardo Silva in the summer as the Portuguese midfielder has been heavily linked with Barcelona and Paris Saint-Germain. He was also linked with a departure last summer but after Ilkay Gundogan’s move to Barcelona, he stayed at the Etihad.
Silva has been brilliant again for Man City this season, scoring nine goals and providing five assists in 39 games across competitions. His contract with the club expires in 2026.
Moreover, City are also likely to part ways with midfielder Kalvin Phillips. Matheus Nunes has also failed to impress since his arrival from Wolverhampton Wanderers last summer. Hence, signing Paqueta could be a big priority for the current Premier League holders.