MU contacts West Ham, targets Lucas Paquetá for January

Manchester United have begun to approach West Ham about Lucas Paquetá for the January transfer window. According to IndyKaila's X (Twitter) account, Ruben Amorim's team is said to be "very keen" to close the deal in the winter if the price offered by West Ham is considered "reasonable compared to market value". On the other hand, the Brazilian midfielder, after being cleared of all charges related to the FA's investigation, has once again become a priority target.

Negotiation status and price

According to the source, Man United have contacted to inquire about the terms of a possible deal. Lucas Paquetá's estimated transfer value (ETV) is currently around €63.1 million. Meanwhile, West Ham are said to have placed a price tag of €68 million (£60 million) for the 28-year-old. Paquetá's contract with West Ham runs until 2027.

Paquetá's rumoured €100m move to Manchester City collapsed amid an FA investigation. After being cleared of any wrongdoing, his transfer landscape has changed dramatically.

Why Man United chose Paquetá

Man United want to strengthen their midfield and see Paquetá as a viable option alongside targets Adam Wharton, Carlos Baleba or Elliot Anderson. Paquetá is considered a “samba dancer” in the Premier League: flexible, technical and creative. Not only is he a playmaker, he often inspires the ball in the attack – an element Man United are looking for to increase the quality of control and innovation in the middle of the field.

Tactical angle: What Paquetá can bring

With his technical background and ability to work in tight spaces, Paquetá is suited to a deep-lying playmaker role or as a link between midfield and attack. His rhythm and ability to unlock defences are strengths that have been regularly demonstrated at West Ham. This addition gives United more variety in their build-up play, increasing the creative opportunities in the final third – especially when breaking the deadlock against deep blocks.

January transfer scenarios

According to The Sun, Lucas Paquetá wants to leave West Ham in the winter transfer window. Last summer, he was close to joining Aston Villa but the deal did not go through because West Ham did not want to sell. On the other hand, Flamengo are said to be keeping a close eye on him, but the €68 million price tag makes Paquetá's return home difficult.

Position and potential impact

If negotiations progress and a fee is agreed, Paquetá could be a creative addition to Ruben Amorim’s side. With his Premier League experience and conceptual style, he would add a technical touch, improve the quality of his midfield play and help United improve their chances of creating.

Key numbers

• Estimated Transfer Value (ETV): 63.1 million Euros
• The price West Ham are said to be asking: 68 million Euros (equivalent to 60 million Pounds)
• Current contract with West Ham: until 2027
• The failed deal with Manchester City: about 100 million Euros
• Negotiation source: IndyKaila on X (Twitter); exit wish information: The Sun

At the moment, the contact process is only in the exploratory stage. Lucas Paquetá's future in January will depend on West Ham's view on the price, as well as Man United's determination in the context of the often unpredictable winter market.