West Ham fought tooth and nail to keep hold of Lucas Paquetá this summer.
The Brazilian playmaker was heavily linked with a move away, with Manchester City and Aston Villa among the clubs circling. Pep Guardiola’s side almost landed him back in 2023 before he became the subject of spot-fixing allegations, while other European giants were also reportedly monitoring his situation.
Thankfully for the Hammers, Paquetá remained at the London Stadium. He’s since repaid that faith with a string of outstanding displays, quickly becoming Graham Potter’s talisman in a squad that underwent sweeping changes during the transfer window.
Paquetá has already netted three goals this season, making him the club’s top scorer. His standout moment came in the shock 3-0 win over Nottingham Forest, when he kissed the West Ham badge in front of a jubilant home crowd.
That celebration seemed to send a message of loyalty – but it may not last much longer.
Paquetá Hints at West Ham Departure Date
On Thursday night, Paquetá appeared to drop a major hint about his future.
Taking to Instagram, the 28-year-old pledged his commitment to West Ham for the current campaign – but strongly suggested it would be his final year in claret and blue.
He wrote alongside an image of himself holding the West Ham shirt after scoring against Forest: “It’s about choosing those who welcomed you, who never judged you, who believed in you until the very last moment, who loved you and made you feel at home.
“It’s about staying loyal not only when you had everything, but also when there was nothing… it’s not time to say goodbye yet! Let’s go together for one more season!”
Paquetá, who was cleared of spot-fixing charges earlier this summer after a two-year investigation, remains under contract until 2027.
But his post makes it clear that this season may be his swansong in east London.
For West Ham, it’s a hammer blow – but given the quality and reputation of Paquetá, it’s easy to see why Europe’s elite will continue to come calling.
