- EXCLUSIVE from Graeme Bailey
West Ham United are preparing to sell Lucas Paqueta this summer, HITC can confirm.
HITC sources confirm that Paqueta remains one Pep Guardiola top transfer targets for the summer and Manchester City fully intend on bringing him to the Etihad Stadium.
City tried to sign Paqueta last summer only for the deal to be thwarted.
The FA launched an investigation last summer into whether the West Ham United midfielder was involved in breaking betting regulations.
The decision to investigate Paqueta meant an impending move to Manchester City was called off.
Paqueta investigation latest
HITC understands that Paqueta’s representatives are prepared to mount legal challenge against the FA if they prevent him from moving this summer.
The investigation is still ongoing, despite Paqueta’s insistence that he has nothing to answer to, as he has never placed a bet in his life and he, his family and representatives have responded to every question put to them – even turning in devices such as mobile phones and tablets.
The FA have thus far refused to put a time frame on the situation, but Paqueta and West Ham are pushing them to finalise their investigation as soon as possible and HITC is told that both parties feel a deal is going to happen.
HITC also understands that PSG, Juventus and Bayern Munich are huge admirers of Paqueta, but we understand his heart is set on a move to City.
Paqueta stats
Paqueta has turned out 26 times in the Premier League this season, notching four goals and six assists in the process.
The 26-year-old has also chipped in with four goals in nine Europa League games this season.
However, Paqueta is suspended for Thursday night’s Europa League quarter-final second leg against Bayer Leverkusen.
A yellow card in Leverkusen last week was Paqueta’s third of the competition and his second in the knockout stages.