West Ham United say they have no intention of loaning Lucas Paqueta to his boyhood club Flamengo.
The Brazilian side want to sign Paqueta on a temporary deal, but West Ham are reluctant to engage in talks and plan on keeping the playmaker.
Last month the 26-year-old requested more time to respond to his Football Association (FA) charge for alleged betting breaches. He denies all wrongdoing.
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The midfielder, who is currently representing Brazil at the Copa America, is keen on a move back to play for his former club while the FA case continues. The Campeonato Brasileiro Serie A league season runs from April to December.
As it stands, Paqueta is not provisionally suspended from playing for his club or country and there is no date for a final decision on the case.
He was cleared to play this summer’s Copa America — where he has so far made three appearances for his country — after the Brazil Football Federation (CBF) sought clarity from the FA on his eligibility.
Paqueta will be given time off before returning to Rush Green for pre-season training after the tournament.
The Brazil international feels harshly treated by the FA having been charged with alleged betting breaches.
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He is accused of getting himself deliberately booked in four Premier League games. If found guilty, he could be banned for life, a fear that is shared internally by senior figures at West Ham.
“I am extremely surprised and upset that the FA has decided to charge me,” said Paqueta in response to the charge in May.
“For nine months, I have cooperated with every step of their investigation and provided all the information I can. I deny the charges in their entirety and will fight with every breath to clear my name.”
Last summer West Ham rejected a £70million ($89.2m) offer from Manchester City for Paqueta. His £85million ($108.4m) release clause became active in June, but given the severity of his charges it is unlikely to be activated by suitors.
Paqueta, West Ham’s record signing, who moved from Lyon in the summer of 2022 for £51million ($65.2m at today’s conversion rates), has scored 13 goals across 84 appearances.
On Monday, Tim Steidten, the technical director, and head coach Julen Lopetegui came to Paqueta’s defence and outlined his importance to the team.
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“We know Lucas and his family have suffered a lot,” said Lopetegui. “But I liked seeing him smile in his last match, because he’s enjoying his football. We are his family, this club is his family, and we’re going to take care of him a lot. We’re looking forward to having him play with us on the pitch.”
Steidten echoed Lopetegui’s sentiments. “I visited Lucas in Brazil and talked to him,” said Steidten. “We’re looking forward to having him back. He’s an important part of our team and a member of our family.”
West Ham open up their pre-season campaign against east London counterparts Dagenham and Redbridge on July 20.
They play Aston Villa on the opening weekend of the 2024-25 Premier League season.
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Lucas Paqueta: What we're hearing after charge for alleged betting breaches
(Ian Maule/Getty Images)
