Paqueta pushing to leave West Ham before transfer deadline

Lucas Paqueta wants to leave West Ham for Flamengo this month, and not wait until the summer for a return to Brazil.

Flamengo have had one offer turned down for the midfielder this month and have now increased the proposal to €41m (£35.5m) for the Brazil international.

West Ham had been keen to negotiate a deal that would see Paqueta remain at the London Stadium until the end of the campaign.

Nuno Espirito Santo’s side are currently in the Premier League’s relegation places and battling to preserve their top-flight status.

However, Paqueta wants to quit the East Londoners now and sign for Flamengo, whose 2026 Campeonato Brasileiro Série A begins on Friday against Sao Paulo. Flamengo are the defending champions after winning an eighth title last season.

Fabrizio Romano is reporting that Flamengo director José Boto is working to reach an agreement on payment terms with West Ham. Talks are ongoing between the clubs.

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