Lucas Paqueta transfer destination revealed as Aston Villa target set to leave West Ham
Lucas Paqueta finally looks set to leave West Ham after links to Aston Villa in the summer.
Villa targeted Paqueta on deadline day in the summer, but they ultimately failed in their efforts to sign the Brazil international.
The attacking midfielder went on to show his allegiance to the Hammers with his celebration against Nottingham Forest, despite reports suggesting that Paqueta wanted to sign for Villa.
Villa went on to sign Harvey Elliott, and it is safe to say no party has benefited from their ultimate transfer decisions this season.
Paqueta is destined to leave the London Stadium in January, with his next destination already in the pipeline.
Lucas Paqueta set for Brazil return
Paqueta was eyed by Unai Emery over the summer as the Spaniard eyed additional creativity for midfield areas in B6.
The ex-Lyon man opted against joining the Villans, but has seriously failed to impact things at West Ham after a hugely quiet season to this point.
That has seen the attacking midfielder struggle alongside his teammates in claret and blue, with Nuno Espirito Santo’s side sitting in the bottom three of the Premier League.
It seems that a relegation battle isn’t where the 28-year-old wants this part of his career, with a London Stadium exit now increasingly likely.
ExWHUEmployee reported on Monday that Paqueta is keen on returning to Brazil this winter, with Alex Crook echoing the information.
The talkSPORT reporter has suggested that Nuno wants to keep the number 10 in E20 even if his sights are set on a January homecoming.
Aston Villa dodge transfer bullet with Paqueta
There was a huge mix of excitement and reservation from supporters in the Midlands when the attacking midfielder was linked with a move from West Ham.
Paqueta has undeniable quality, but after contributing just 5 goals in 18 Premier League games for the Irons, it is clear he is unable to show it consistently.
It now looks as if a return to the Brazilian Serie A is likely, summing up what sort of level the former Flamengo man sees himself at right now.
Villa so nearly spent upwards of £47million on his signature in the summer, something which could have been a disaster.
It would be interesting to know if Paqueta regrets his choice to stay at West Ham, especially with the Villans sitting third in the league right now.
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