Lucas Paqueta: West Ham is reluctant to sell despite Brazil’s interest

West Ham are reluctant to agree to sell Lucas Paqueta this month amid interest in the Brazilian striker.

Sources have indicated to BBC Sport that at least two clubs in Paqueta’s home country, including Flamengo, have shown interest in the Brazil international this transfer window.

The midfielder is said to be open to returning to South America this month with behind-the-scenes plans being made towards a possible return to Brazil.

Paqueta, who has 18 months remaining on his contract at the London Stadium, is expected to leave West Ham either in the current transfer window or in the summer.

However, as things stand, the Hammers do not want to sell the 28-year-old, who is seen as an important member of the squad.

Paqueta has made 18 Premier League appearances for West Ham so far this season, scoring four goals and making one assist.

Sources close to the club confirmed that no official offer has been received for him so far this month.

Whether any bid is considered will depend on the value of the offer, but given Paqueta’s status as a key player in manager Nuno Espirito Santo’s plans as they look to avoid relegation, it would take a big offer from the Hammers to change their position.

It is understood that Flamengo would be willing to make a bid worth around £35m for Paqueta.

In December, Nuno said Paqueta was still affected by the investigation into match-fixing accusations against him.

The Football Association launched an investigation in August 2023 and charged the Brazilian in May 2024 for allegedly deliberately obtaining a booking “for the improper purpose of influencing the betting market.”

It was cleared by an independent regulatory committee in July 2025.