West Ham United ‘seriously worried’ over star’s future | OneFootball

West Ham face crucial test as Paqueta’s future uncertainty grows

Pressure mounts amid Paqueta speculation

West Ham United are facing growing uncertainty over the future of one of their most influential players, with TeamTalk reporting that Lucas Paqueta’s desire to leave could soon test the club’s resolve. Despite assurances from within the London Stadium that the Brazilian midfielder will not be sold, the noise surrounding his situation is becoming difficult to ignore.

The 28-year-old has been a mainstay for West Ham this season, starting all nine Premier League games and contributing two goals. Yet, as results continue to disappoint and the club sit second-bottom of the table with just four points, there is an increasing sense of unease.

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Transfer insider Dean Jones told TeamTalk that “the constant speculation about Paqueta is interesting and makes me believe he is now getting itchy feet.” He added, “West Ham were adamant he would not leave in the summer but I was told his head really was turned by interest in him, even though he was torn because of a sense of loyalty he held to them for sticking by him through a difficult year.”

Premier League clubs monitoring the situation

Aston Villa, Tottenham Hotspur and Manchester City have all been linked with Paqueta, and while no immediate offers are believed to be forthcoming, that interest is unlikely to fade. Jones noted, “My West Ham contacts continue to insist there is no desire for the club to sell him but the noises are getting louder that he is keen to go and I am starting to take that more seriously.”

City’s long-standing admiration of the player is well-documented, while both Villa and Spurs view him as a high-level creative addition who could lift their attacking options. However, with West Ham’s precarious league position and limited January budget, the timing could not be worse for such uncertainty to resurface.

Paqueta’s impact and contract security

Paqueta joined West Ham in 2022 for £51 million and has since made 130 appearances, scoring 21 goals and providing 14 assists. His influence extends far beyond statistics, offering composure, flair and tempo control in midfield. Losing him mid-season would represent a huge setback for Nuno Espírito Santo, particularly with the team struggling for confidence and cohesion.

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The Brazilian’s contract runs until 2027, with an option for an additional year, giving West Ham leverage. Even so, their restricted January budget could tempt decision-makers if a significant offer arrives. As Jones warned, “It’s a pretty worrying time for their fans.”

January window set to test West Ham resolve

TeamTalk recently reported that West Ham intend to resist all approaches for both Paqueta and Jarrod Bowen in the winter window. Yet, should Paqueta push for a move, the club will face a difficult choice between maintaining stability and cashing in to fund reinforcements in defence and attack.

With morale low and the season at a delicate juncture, the coming weeks could define West Ham’s trajectory both on and off the pitch.

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West Ham supporters have seen their best players unsettled before, but the thought of losing Paqueta mid-season is particularly troubling. His flair, vision and unpredictability are central to any hope of climbing out of the relegation zone, and fans know how hard it is to replace that kind of quality.

Many supporters will sympathise with Paqueta’s ambition, especially if he feels he has outgrown a struggling side. Yet there is also a sense that loyalty should count for something.

The mood around the club has grown tense, not just because of results, but because of the lack of direction in recruitment. With a limited budget and mounting pressure on Nuno, fans will hope the board stand firm, resist temptation and focus on stabilising performances. Losing Paqueta now could risk unravelling the entire season.