Manchester City to Trigger Release Clause of Lucas Paqueta
Source: Cityxtra
Highlights
  • Manchester City set to activate the release clause of West Ham and Brazil star Lucas Paqueta, pending one condition.
  • Previous PS80 million transfer collapsed due to FIFA and FA investigation into player.
  • Investigation results expected soon.
Manchester City is reportedly preparing to trigger the release clause of West Ham midfielder Lucas Paqueta. The potential transfer, which was worth PS80 million last year, fell through following an investigation by FIFA and FA. The probe focused on suspicious betting patterns involving the Brazilian player during the summer transfer window in 2023. Despite ongoing investigations, Paqueta has remained available for selection throughout this season and has contributed directly to a total of eleven goals across various competitions. However, his recent absence due to a calf injury has had a significant impact on David Moyes's side as they have not won any games since December. With an active PS85 million release clause that becomes effective next summer, West Ham faces losing another key midfielder for two consecutive years after setting a clubrecord fee when signing him in 2022. Although Manchester City failed in their attempt at signing former captain Declan Rice last year (who joined Arsenal for PS105 million), there is still hope for them securing Pacuqta's services this time around if he clears his name from the investigation. According to insider 'Tolmie's Hairdoo' on X platform, Pacuqta remains a primary target ahead of the new campaign with plans underway at Manchester City regarding matching his PS85 million buyout should he be acquitted before midJuly. In addition to pursuing Pacuqta's signature again this summer, Guardiola's team has also been linked with Bayern Munich’s Joshua Kimmich and Wolves’ versatile forward Pedro Neto. However, Manchester City's plans to sign Pacuqta may be influenced by the future of Kalvin Phillips, who is currently on loan at West Ham until the end of this season after a temporary move in January. Phillips received a red card against Nottingham Forest recently and has no obligation to make his transfer permanent.

Next news

Wolves star ‘pushing’ for club-record move to Manchester City amid Liverpool and Arsenal links

Read more