Manchester City looking to bolster squad with Premier League star after agreeing personal terms - Reports
Manchester City are already planning for next season after retaining their Premier League title and are reportedly closing in on the signing of Lucas Paqueta. The Brazilian star is a long-term target and looks set to leave West Ham United this summer.
Foot Mercato's Santi Aouna reports that City officials are set to hold talks with West Ham's hierarchy to gauge Paqueta's price tag. The 26-year-old has shone since arriving at the London Stadium two years ago.
Paqueta registered eight goals and seven assists in 43 games across competitions this season. Pep Guardiola tried bringing him to the Etihad last summer but pulled out of an £85 million deal after the FA started an investigation into alleged betting breaches.
Manchester City have already agreed personal terms with the Brazil international who will be on international duty at this summer's Copa America. Guardiola dealt with Ilkay Gundogan's departure last summer by signing Mateo Kovacic and Matheus Nunes.
However, Paqueta was his top target and is a player he's admired for several years. The Spaniard waxed lyrical about the playmaker after City beat West Ham 3-1 to win the title yesterday (via manchestercity.news):
"[Lucas] Paqueta is a top-class player in terms of, can do many, many things."
Paqueta has three years left on his contract with the Hammers. He was part of David Moyes' side that won the UEFA Europa Conference League in the 2022-23 campaign.
Lucas Paqueta opened up on his failed move to Manchester City
Paqueta insisted he was focused on West Ham after a move to Manchester City failed to materialize last summer. The Brazilian was asked about the situation in March (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."
The former Lyon midfielder said he was helping the FA with their investigation which didn't prevent him from appearing this past season. He'll be looking to catch the eye at Copa America and has a good chance of being a regular starter at that tournament.
Paqueta has earned 44 caps to date, bagging 10 goals and four assists. His form for club and country has been a key reason Guardiola has been tracking him.