Lucas Paqueta signs for Aston Villa: Who Unai Emery could axe if West Ham star joins
Lucas Paqueta is a target for Aston Villa in the final few days of the transfer window.
Winless in their first two games, it has not been the best start to the season for Aston Villa, who were beaten by Brentford last time out, though that could be addressed in the final two days of the transfer window.
Paqueta has been linked with a move to Villa Park, with West Ham said to be open to his exit if a suitable offer is made.
Any transfer is likely to command a transfer fee of around £60million, and at that price, Unai Emery would have to find a way to get him in the Aston Villa XI.
John McGinn to make way for Lucas Paqueta arrival
John McGinn was linked with an exit from Aston Villa this summer, though the Scotsman certainly sees his future at Villa Park.
However, that could change if Paqueta joins from West Ham, with him being the likely sacrifice to get the Brazilian in the starting 11.
Villa have several midfield options, which has resulted in McGinn shifting positions, often featuring on the right flank.
That space could be occupied by Paqueta, allowing Boubacar Kamara, Amadou Onana and Youri Tielemans to retain their place in a midfield triangle.
Emery would be able to utilise Paqueta in several positions, but this would be the change that would make the most sense.
- Read more: Aston Villa in late talks to seal ‘significant’ transfer with heavy add-ons before deadline
Lucas Paqueta is the player Aston Villa need
Aston Villa have some seriously talented forwards, but often lack the profile needed to unlock those attacking qualities.
Paqueta would certainly rectify that, though he would certainly have to cut the dark arts out of his game if he is to thrive at Villa Park.
As showcased above, Paqueta plays his football on the front foot, and his creative ability is what Villa need to get to the next level.
It is certainly an ambitious transfer to be lining up, but if Aston Villa can sign Paqueta, it would be a massive boost to their hopes of achieving success this season.
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