Sky Sports News report that West Ham United have seen a £33.8million bid rejected for Lyon playmaker Lucas Paqueta – but that talks are ongoing to sign the Brazil international, while Arsenal and Newcastle still remain interested.
Paqueta, 24, looks likely to be the subject of one of the main transfer dramas between now until the end of the window. The Lyon ace has sparkled for the Ligue 1 club over the last two years. Having a hand in 35 goals in 80 games.
Reports state that Arsenal and Newcastle are still showing interest in the Brazilian. He is a regular part of the Brazil national side. Often in a front four with Neymar, Vinicius Jr and Raphinha. He has a contract at Lyon until June 2025.
But Premier League clubs are now calling. West Ham were said to have tabled an offer earlier in the week, with David Moyes confirming as such. But Sky now report that the offer has been turned down, though talks are still ongoing.
“In the last few moments, we have learned that Lyon have rejected their offer of €40million for Lucas Paqueta,” Sky report. “Talks are ongoing between the two clubs, West Ham are expected to go back in with an improve offer.”
Sky: West Ham bid rejected for Paqueta but talks ongoing
West Ham can hardly see the bid being turned down as a surprise. Paqueta is a player of Champions League quality. At just 24, he is a player worth far more than just £33.8million. He could easily go for anything above £40million.
With other Premier League clubs said to be interested in the Brazilian, West Ham really need to up their offer and quickly. Otherwise, it allows for the likes of Arsenal and Newcastle to steal in before they can make their move.
But it does look more and more likely that Paqueta will end up in the Premier League before next Thursday’s deadline. He would be a wonderful addition for most Premier League clubs. Even as cover for the likes of Liverpool and City.
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