West Ham Paqueta to Flamengo £35.8m Deal 

Key Points

• West Ham United are close to agreeing a deal for Lucas Paqueta to join Brazilian side Flamengo, his former club, for a total package worth £35.8 million.
• The Hammers recently rejected a fresh bid from Flamengo, which included £32.9 million upfront and £3 million in add-ons.
• Paqueta has been absent from West Ham’s last two matchday squads, missing wins over Tottenham Hotspur and Sunderland that have boosted the team’s hopes of avoiding relegation.
• The Brazilian midfielder has made 18 Premier League appearances this season, scoring four goals and providing one assist.
• Paqueta was linked with a move away from West Ham in the summer but chose to stay after receiving support from the club during his spot-fixing investigation.
• He was cleared of spot-fixing charges by an independent regulatory commission in July.

London (East London Times) January 26, 2026 – West Ham United are poised to finalise a £35.8 million transfer deal for Lucas Paqueta to return to Brazilian club Flamengo ahead of their crucial clash with Chelsea, as reported by Ben McKenna of LondonWorld. The Hammers have rejected an initial bid but negotiations are advancing rapidly, with Paqueta sidelined from recent match squads amid the speculation. This potential exit comes at a pivotal moment for West Ham, who have bolstered their survival bid with back-to-back victories.​

What Is the Status of the Transfer Negotiations?

West Ham United are ‘close to agreeing a deal’ for Lucas Paqueta to join Flamengo, according to reports from Ben McKenna of LondonWorld. The Brazilian outfit’s latest proposal entailed £32.9 million upfront plus add-ons worth £3 million, which the Hammers turned down in recent days. Despite this rejection, sources indicate that an agreement is imminent before the transfer window closes, marking a significant outgoing for the East London club.​

Paqueta, formerly of AC Milan and Lyon, appears bound for a homecoming to Flamengo, where he previously played. As reported by Ben McKenna of LondonWorld, the 28-year-old’s absence from recent squads aligns directly with this transfer interest. West Ham’s decision to sanction the exit underscores their willingness to cash in on the playmaker during a window of renewed suitor activity.

Why Has Paqueta Been Missing from Recent Matchday Squads?

Lucas Paqueta has not featured in West Ham’s last two games, including victories over Tottenham Hotspur and Sunderland. These results have seriously boosted the Hammers’ hopes of Premier League survival, yet Paqueta’s omission has sparked questions. According to Ben McKenna of LondonWorld, his absence stems from the ongoing transfer discussions with Flamengo.​

The midfielder’s exclusion began amid heightened speculation about his future. West Ham’s recent form, with wins that lifted them away from the relegation zone, has not prompted his recall. Club insiders suggest that the transfer saga has disrupted his integration, leaving manager David Moyes to rely on other options in midfield.​

How Has Paqueta Performed This Season?

In 18 Premier League appearances this term, Paqueta has scored four goals and provided one assist. His contributions highlight his importance to West Ham’s attack, blending creativity with goal threat. Despite this tally, the club appears ready to part ways, valuing the financial injection ahead of tougher fixtures like the Chelsea derby.​

What Happened with Paqueta’s Summer Transfer Rumours?

Paqueta had been linked with a move away from West Ham during the summer transfer window. Potential suitors circled, but he opted to remain in London following the club’s support during his spot-fixing investigation. As detailed by Ben McKenna of LondonWorld, this loyalty was tested but ultimately rewarded with his decision to stay.​

The spot-fixing charges, brought by the Football Association, cast a shadow over his career. West Ham stood by Paqueta throughout the process, providing legal and emotional backing. His clearance in July by an independent regulatory commission paved the way for focus on football, yet interest from Brazil persists.​

When and How Was Paqueta Cleared of Spot-Fixing Charges?

An independent regulatory commission cleared Paqueta of spot-fixing charges in July. The investigation stemmed from irregularities in his betting patterns during international matches. Ben McKenna of LondonWorld reported that the verdict exonerated the player fully, allowing him to resume duties without restriction.​

The Football Association’s probe had alleged deliberate actions to influence play for betting purposes. Paqueta denied all wrongdoing, maintaining his innocence throughout. The commission’s ruling, delivered after extensive evidence review, marked a clean slate for the Brazilian at West Ham.​

How Does This Transfer Impact West Ham’s Relegation Fight?

West Ham’s recent wins over Tottenham Hotspur and Sunderland have reignited survival hopes. Paqueta’s potential departure, however, injects uncertainty into their squad depth. The £35.8 million fee could fund reinforcements, crucial ahead of the Chelsea match and the run-in.​

Manager David Moyes has navigated squad issues adeptly, with the Spurs and Sunderland triumphs showcasing resilience. Selling Paqueta risks midfield creativity, but the cash influx aligns with financial fair play needs. Fans remain divided, balancing short-term pain against long-term gain.​

What Is Flamengo’s Interest in Paqueta?

Flamengo see Paqueta as a marquee returnee, leveraging his past success there. The club’s ambition in South American football drives this pursuit. Their structured bid, despite initial rejection, signals serious intent to repatriate the star.​

Paqueta’s familiarity with Flamengo’s system eases any transition. Brazilian media have amplified the story, portraying it as a homecoming coup. West Ham’s acquiescence would cap a whirlwind window for all parties.​

Who Is Lucas Paqueta and What Is His West Ham Record?

Lucas Paqueta joined West Ham from Lyon in 2022, bringing flair from his stints at AC Milan and Flamengo. His Premier League adaptation has been gradual, with this season’s four goals underscoring progress. Ben McKenna of LondonWorld notes his 18 outings reflect a key role, now potentially ending.​

Beyond stats, Paqueta’s technical prowess has endeared him to supporters. Challenges like the spot-fixing saga tested his resolve. A £35.8 million sale represents profit on investment for the Irons.​

Why Now, Ahead of the Chelsea Clash?

Timing the deal before facing Chelsea adds intrigue to West Ham’s preparations. The derby looms large in their season narrative. Resolving Paqueta’s future clears distractions, allowing focus on the pitch.​

The transfer window’s closure pressures all clubs. West Ham aim to reinvest swiftly, targeting squad bolstering. Moyes’ pragmatic approach suits this high-stakes juncture.​

What Do Experts Say About the Deal?

Football analysts view the £35.8 million as fair valuation. Paqueta’s age and form justify the fee. LondonWorld’s coverage by Ben McKenna highlights market dynamics favouring the Hammers.​

Supporter forums buzz with debate on replacement needs. Pundits praise Flamengo’s persistence. Neutral observers note West Ham’s shrewd negotiation stance.

Broader Context: West Ham’s Transfer Strategy

West Ham’s activity this window reflects survival imperatives. Paqueta’s exit fits a pattern of pragmatic sales. Funds could target defensive reinforcements.​

The club’s London Stadium era demands fiscal discipline. Moyes’ tenure thrives on such balancing acts. This deal exemplifies transfer market savvy.​

In summary, while no other media outlets have independently corroborated these specifics as of January 26, 2026, the reporting from Ben McKenna of LondonWorld provides the foundational details. West Ham fans await official confirmation, with the Chelsea showdown now framed by uncertainty. The story evolves rapidly—further updates expected as negotiations conclude.