Flamengo and West Ham strike Paqueta agreement
Lucas Paqueta is heading back to Flamengo after the Copa Libertadores champion struck a deal with West Ham.
Paqueta has not featured for West Ham since a 2-1 defeat at home to Nottingham Forest on 6 January.
The Brazil international is keen to leave the Hammers and rejoin Flamengo, whose president said earlier this week it was close to an agreement.
That deal has now been sealed, with Flamengo reportedly set to pay $48.9m (£35.8m) for the playmaker, who has scored four Premier League goals and provided one assist in the competition this term.
West Ham confirmed on Thursday that Paqueta has been granted permission to travel for a medical after a fee was agreed.
"Lucas has made it clear that, for personal and family reasons," a statement read. "he wishes to return home to Brazil and make a fresh start after being cleared in July 2025 of FA misconduct charges that took two years to be resolved – a situation that caused him significant mental strain.
"Despite the club doing everything possible to persuade Lucas to stay, he has remained adamant that his wish is to leave. Therefore, the head coach and the club have reluctantly agreed to accept his transfer request.
"West Ham United would like to take this opportunity to thank our management, players, staff and loyal supporters for the unwavering and devoted support they have shown to Lucas throughout his time at the club and, in particular, over the past two and a half years."
Paqueta joined West Ham from Lyon in 2022. He has played 139 times for the Hammers in all competitions, making 124 starts, and helped them win the Conference League in 2023.
