West Ham dismiss early exit for Paquetá despite £35m interest

West Ham United are unwilling to approve a January departure for Lucas Paquetá despite growing interest from clubs in Brazil, Sport360NG reports.

Sources have told BBC Sport that at least two Brazilian sides are monitoring the situation, including Flamengo, with the 28-year-old understood to be open to a return to South America this month.

Paquetá has 18 months remaining on his contract at the London Stadium and is widely expected to leave either during the current transfer window or in the summer. However, West Ham currently have no intention of selling a player they regard as a key part of their squad.

The Brazil international has made 18 Premier League appearances this season, scoring four goals and registering one assist, and is considered an important figure in head coach Nuno Espirito Santo’s plans as the club battles to steer clear of relegation trouble.

Club sources insist no formal bid has been submitted so far. While West Ham would assess any offer on its merits, it is believed a substantial proposal would be required to shift their position, given Paquetá’s standing within the team.

Flamengo are understood to be prepared to offer around £35 million for the midfielder.

In December, Nuno acknowledged that Paquetá had been affected by an investigation into alleged spot-fixing. The Football Association opened an inquiry in August 2023 and charged the player in May 2024 over claims he deliberately sought to be booked to influence betting markets. An independent regulatory commission cleared Paquetá of the charges in July 2025.