Manchester City keen on signing Lucas Paqueta

Manchester City are making an assertive move to secure the services of the 25-year-old attacking midfielder Lucas Paqueta from West Ham United.

The club’s interest has grown progressively, despite initial attempts falling short. Valued at over £80 million, the Brazil international is now a prime target for Manchester City.

Although City had a victorious start to the 2023/24 Premier League season with a 3-0 triumph over Burnley, the team encountered a setback as Kevin De Bruyne sustained an injury, potentially sidelining him for several weeks.

In light of this, City head coach Pep Guardiola is eager to bring Paqueta into the squad. The pursuit of the Brazilian began prior to De Bruyne’s injury, but now the effort is being escalated.

Previously, a £70 million offer from Manchester City was rejected by West Ham United. Undeterred, the Citizens are considering the option of including Cole Palmer in a part-exchange deal for Paqueta.

The Premier League champions urgently requires a fresh attacking midfielder, and Paqueta has displayed promise since his £51 million move from Lyon to West Ham under David Moyes’s management last summer.

West Ham are reluctant to release Paqueta, having already sold Declan Rice during the transfer window. Despite their desire to retain him for another season, an offer exceeding £80 million could be hard to turn down, considering Paqueta’s contract still spans four years.

With De Bruyne’s absence looming, Guardiola is prioritising the addition of Paqueta to bolster the team’s midfield.

Manchester City are prepared to invest significantly to secure his services before the transfer window closes.