West Ham United are reluctant to part ways with Lucas Paqueta during the January transfer window despite growing interest from Brazil, as the club looks to maintain stability during a crucial phase of the season.
BBC Sport understands that at least two Brazilian clubs have expressed interest in the 28-year-old midfielder, with Flamengo leading the pursuit. Paqueta, who has 18 months remaining on his contract at the London Stadium, is said to be open to a return to South America, and discussions behind the scenes have explored the feasibility of a move this month.
However, West Ham’s position remains clear for now: they do not want to sell. The Brazil international is viewed as a key figure in manager Nuno Espirito Santo’s squad, particularly as the club battles to steer clear of relegation concerns in the Premier League. Any potential sale, sources suggest, would require a significant offer to persuade the Hammers to reconsider their stance.
Paqueta has been a regular presence this season, featuring in 18 league matches, scoring four goals and providing one assist. His technical quality, creativity and experience have made him a central part of West Ham’s attacking structure, even during a campaign that has lacked consistency. Losing such a player midway through the season would be a considerable gamble for a side seeking momentum and points.
Flamengo are believed to be willing to offer around £35m for Paqueta, a figure that reflects both his pedigree and his contract situation. While that sum would represent a substantial fee, West Ham sources indicate that no formal bid has yet been submitted. Until such an offer arrives, the club’s official position is unchanged.
Even if a bid does materialise, West Ham’s decision will be shaped by more than finances alone. Nuno Espirito Santo has leaned heavily on Paqueta, valuing his versatility and leadership within the squad. With the team hovering dangerously close to the bottom end of the table, disrupting the core of the side could carry serious sporting risks.
Paqueta’s situation is further complicated by events off the pitch. The midfielder has endured a prolonged period of uncertainty following an investigation by the Football Association into alleged spot-fixing offences. The FA began its inquiry in August 2023 and formally charged Paqueta in May 2024, alleging he deliberately sought bookings to influence betting markets.
Those charges cast a shadow over his career for much of last season, and in December, Nuno acknowledged that the situation continued to affect the player. “It’s not easy,” the West Ham boss admitted at the time, referencing the mental toll such scrutiny can take. Paqueta was ultimately cleared by an independent regulatory commission in July 2025, bringing an end to the saga, but the impact lingered.
Despite those challenges, Paqueta has continued to perform, regaining consistency and focus in West Ham colours. His ability to play through pressure has only reinforced the club’s belief in his importance, making a January departure even less appealing from a footballing perspective.
From Paqueta’s side, a return to Brazil carries emotional and professional appeal. Having started his career at Flamengo, the midfielder has never hidden his affection for his boyhood club. A move back home could offer familiarity and comfort after a turbulent period in England, while also restoring him to a starring role in Brazilian domestic football.
Yet timing is everything. West Ham are conscious that Paqueta is likely to leave either this month or in the summer, given his contract length and interest from elsewhere. The club may be more open to negotiations at the end of the season, when replacements can be properly planned and the league position clarified.
For now, though, West Ham appear determined to hold their ground. With no formal offer on the table and a difficult run of fixtures ahead, selling one of their most influential players would be a bold move. As January progresses, Paqueta’s future remains uncertain, but unless a sizeable bid arrives, the Hammers are prepared to resist and keep faith with a player they still see as central to their survival hopes.
