Lucas Paqueta to leave West Ham in January unless one ‘unlikely’ thing happens
Lucas Paqueta has been tipped to force through a West Ham exit in January unless one thing happens before then.
Paqueta scored in West Ham’s 3-1 victory over Newcastle United on Sunday (2 November), bringing an end to their six-game run without a victory.
However, Nuno Espirito Santo’s side are still firmly in a relegation battle, sitting 18th in the Premier League and three points adrift of safety.
Over the last few months, Paqueta has been linked with a move away from West Ham, with the club now concerned about his future plans.
Lucas Paqueta could have ‘knee-jerk’ reaction to West Ham form
Everton’s former chief Keith Wyness – who served as CEO at Goodison Park between 2004 and 2009 and now runs a football consultancy advising elite clubs – believes that Paqueta wants to remain in the Premier League at all costs.
Speaking on the new edition of Football Insider’s Inside Track podcast, Wyness insisted that the Brazilian will be looking to leave in January unless West Ham suddenly turn their form around.
Paqueta received interest from Man City over the summer and is likely to have a number of clubs interested in him if he becomes available.
Wyness added there are question marks around the midfielder’s loyalty and he could well complete a move away in January.
He told Football Insider‘s Inside Track podcast: “I think there is every chance he leaves. He’s scored a couple of good goals already this season, despite West Ham’s decline.
“It’s all been him kissing the badge and how much he loves the club and the whole thing. But you bet he wants to go in January. He’s a quality player. There’ll be a demand for him in January.
“Unless, of course, we see West Ham turn it around. I mean, they had a win against Newcastle. If they go on a winning streak and they move up the table, maybe Paqueta won’t be so keen to move.
“I think he’s one of those who has got a bit of a knee-jerk reaction, and his agents are trying to keep him in the Premier League. If West Ham look as if they’re going to remain in the Premier League, then those demands may sort of disappear. So it’s a weird one.
“Look, he’s a talent, there is no doubt, but I think there are a lot of question marks around him now in terms of loyalty. I do expect him to be making moves, and I think it could be January unless we see West Ham go on a huge winning run, which may be unlikely.”
West Ham’s three-man January signing plan
Meanwhile, Football Insider have exclusively revealed that West Ham have a three-man signing plan for the January transfer window.
It is evident that the East London side need reinforcements, and the club will be looking to address three positions in particular.
Sources say that West Ham’s primary target in the transfer window will be a centre-forward.
They would also like to strengthen in central midfield and central defence if finances allow.
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