The transfer window has been so busy and exciting that it has overshadowed Lucas Paquetá’s pending FA investigation. Whilst the Hammers have received encouraging news that the Brazilian playmaker will be available for at least half of this season, it would be unwise for the club not to prepare for the possibility of an outright football ban for Paquetá.
West Ham’s new head coach Julen Lopetegui has publicly stated that he wants two senior players for every position, and director of football Tim Steidten has largely delivered on that promise.
However, in the worst-case scenario of Paquetá being banned for betting irregularities, the club would be left without a natural number 10. West Ham’s creative passing heavily relies on the Brazilian playmaker, as demonstrated during the 2-1 Premier League loss to Aston Villa.
Although Paquetá did not play particularly well during his time on the pitch, he still provided decisive moments with a glorious pass to Tomas Soucek and by converting the resulting penalty.
So, while it’s not a case of ‘no Paquetá, no party,’ West Ham are thin in the area of attacking midfield. Some, including myself, may consider Mohammed Kudus a viable option as a CAM, but Julen Lopetegui has shown no inclination to play him centrally, favouring a passer rather than a dribbler in that position.
Therefore, if a deal for Soler can be made with PSG, it would be a transfer that could suit all parties irrespective of Paqueta’s FA destiny.
