Fabrizio Romano provides update on Manchester United interest in Premier League star | OneFootball

Paqueta Links Surface as United Consider Midfield Future

Manchester United rumours never sleep. Transfer chatter can swirl like mist over Old Trafford, whispering names that ignite debate and expectation across the fanbase. Lucas Paqueta is the latest to breeze into view, although clarity remains scarce. Give Me Sport reported Fabrizio Romano’s latest insight, noting “Manchester United have yet to approach West Ham United over midfielder Lucas Paqueta amid rumours of a possible move.”

There is intrigue, there is possibility, but there is no confirmed pursuit yet.

Paqueta Situation Explained

Paqueta’s contract with West Ham United runs until June 2027, and he remains one of the league’s most technically gifted playmakers. Yet the Hammers’ season has been turbulent. Sitting 19th after nine matches in the 2025-26 campaign has frayed nerves and sharpened exit speculation. According to the report, Romano explained “in January, if there is the right opportunity, Paqueta could have the possibility to go and leave West Ham.”

That alone will stir interest among Europe’s elite. His ability to glide into pockets, manipulate tight spaces and add imaginative spark fits the profile of top clubs seeking creative midfield steel. There is, as Romano highlighted, a “concrete possibility” for movement when the winter window opens.

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United, however, appear in the observe phase rather than the action phase. Romano added “at the moment, I am not aware of concrete or advanced negotiations between Paqueta and Manchester United or Manchester United and West Ham.” In other words, there is curiosity rather than commitment.

Financial Realities and West Ham Stance

No club wants to sell a key player in crisis, and West Ham certainly do not. Romano made that clear, stating “financially, West Ham are not going to give Paqueta for free or for small money.” Given their position, holding firm or demanding a premium feels inevitable. West Ham know that losing their creative fulcrum could deepen their difficulties.

United therefore must weigh short term opportunity against long term strategy. The club spent heavily in attack last summer, with nearly £200m invested in Matheus Cunha, Bryan Mbeumo and Benjamin Sesko. Midfield, per Give Me Sport’s reminder, remains a 2026 priority for a player who can control rhythm and elevate structure. Any immediate move would require conviction, value and a clear tactical fit under Ruben Amorim’s evolving approach.

Tactical Fit and Transfer Timing

Paqueta offers versatility, operating as an advanced eight or creative ten, and he has resilience built through Premier League battles. United have leaned increasingly toward fluid attacking rotations and structured press traps under Amorim. A player of Paqueta’s vision could thrive in that environment, but only if the financials align.

January rarely rewards rushed decisions. The landscape can shift quickly and patience may be the smartest currency.

Still, as Romano teased, “Paqueta could be very interesting in terms of role, in terms of quality.” That line alone is enough to keep this conversation warm.

Our View, EPL Index Analysis

As a Manchester United supporter, this one gets the pulse going a bit. There is something about Paqueta, the swagger, the confidence on the ball, and the flair that feels like it could ignite this midfield. Yet there is also a sense of caution. We have lived through marquee names arriving without the right structure before. Ruben Amorim has earned trust by building gradually, and his second season has focused on defensive cohesion and forward synergy.

Paqueta could be magic, no doubt. When he is on song, he sees vertical passes others cannot, he breaks lines and he brings chaos in the best way. But part of me wonders whether we need a more tempo-controlling profile first, someone who can dominate phases and dictate matches. Think of the way elite sides rely on a conductor. That might arrive in the summer window rather than January.

Still, seeing West Ham struggle makes the rumour feel plausible. And when Romano says “concrete possibility”, it always sparks excitement. If the price softens and if the club sees the tactical fit, Paqueta under Amorim could be box office football. For now, I am intrigued rather than expectant.