Lucas Paqueta appeared to be on his way to becoming the newest signing for Pep Guardiola’s Treble-winning Manchester City over the summer.
The West Ham United midfielder appeared to be on his way to City after an £80 million deal was agreed in principle.
However, the deal was canceled after the Football Association (FA) launched an inquiry into alleged betting violations, which Paqueta disputes.
Paqueta faced up against what could have been his employers yesterday as Manchester City played the Hammers at the London Stadium, where City recovered from behind to win 3-1.
David Moyes’ team led at halftime thanks to James Ward-Prowse, but City equalized a minute later thanks to summer acquisition Jeremy Doku.
With a quarter-hour remaining, Bernardo Silva gave the visitors the lead, while Erling Haaland added City’s third before the end.
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Paqueta started the game against the Treble champions and went over to the City bench to welcome Guardiola, embracing the Spaniard with a hug, demonstrating that the duo are still on good terms despite the fact that the deal for the Brazil international did not materialize.
There is always the possibility that the deal will be reconsidered in the January transfer window, however City may face competition for his signing.
Nah Paqueta is desperate 😭https://t.co/lWBob91EcU
— 𝐄𝐑 (@ErlingRoIe) September 17, 2023
According to Fichajes, Eddie Howe’s Newcastle United are considering a £52 million January bid for Paqueta’s services.
However, it remains to be seen whether that would be enough to entice the Hammers to sell, given that City agreed to an £80 million deal for Paqueta over the summer.
And, considering Paqueta’s good relationship with Guardiola, there is always the possibility that if given the opportunity, he would prefer a move to City over a move to Newcastle.