Lucas Paqueta to Tottenham? Spurs eye midfield boost ahead of new season

Tottenham Hotspur are reportedly weighing up a move for West Ham United playmaker Lucas Paqueta, according to the Daily Mail.

The Brazilian midfielder has been a key figure for the Hammers since arriving from Lyon in 2022, helping them lift the UEFA Conference League in his first season. Despite that success, Paqueta’s future was clouded by an FA investigation into suspicious yellow cards. The case stalled a potential transfer to Manchester City, but he has since been cleared of any wrongdoing.

Spurs eye Paqueta as midfield solution

With Tottenham missing out on Crystal Palace star Eberechi Eze earlier this summer, Paqueta has emerged as a prime target to strengthen their attacking midfield options. Aston Villa are also keen, but Spurs hold a significant advantage as Paqueta is said to favour a move to a Champions League club.

Unai Emery’s Villa narrowly missed out on Europe’s elite competition, while Tottenham secured qualification by winning the Europa League. That achievement, coupled with Ange Postecoglou’s growing project, could prove decisive in luring Paqueta across London.

West Ham may cash in

The 27-year-old has two years left on his contract and is currently valued at around £24m by Transfermarkt. With no extension agreed, West Ham could look to cash in this summer rather than risk losing him for less down the line.

Paqueta’s versatility makes him an attractive option for Spurs. Naturally a creative midfielder, he is also capable of operating as a box-to-box player or on the left flank. He showcased his quality with a superb strike against Chelsea last week, even though West Ham were thrashed 5-1.

A smart move for Tottenham?

Paqueta’s flair, work rate and experience at both club and international level would add real depth to Tottenham’s midfield. The question
now is whether Spurs will formalise their interest and test West Ham’s resolve with a concrete bid.