West Ham United have agreed a deal to sell Brazilian forward Lucas Paqueta to Flamengo for a fee of more than €41 million, bringing an end to his spell in east London. The 28-year-old has been granted permission to travel to Brazil to complete the move ahead of the winter transfer deadline on 2 February. Paqueta had 18 months remaining on his contract at the London Stadium, and the agreement marks a significant decision for a club currently battling near the bottom of the Premier League table. The move comes as Flamengo pushes to strengthen their squad ahead of the new Brazilian domestic season, which begins in March, while West Ham continues to reassess their squad structure during a difficult campaign.
West Ham were initially open to a deal that would have seen Paqueta return to Brazil while remaining on loan in London until the end of the season. However, Flamengo were keen to complete the transfer immediately, and negotiations progressed with that objective in mind. Paqueta joined West Ham from Lyon in 2022 and quickly became a central figure in the side, valued for his creativity and technical quality. His recent absence, however, has coincided with a small upturn in results, with the club recording three consecutive league wins for the first time since 2023, suggesting a shift in tactical balance under current conditions.
Despite the improved run of form, West Ham remain 18th in the Premier League standings and sit five points from safety, underlining the scale of the challenge facing the club during the second half of the season. The decision to part ways with Paqueta reflects both sporting and financial considerations, as the club looks to stabilise performances while managing its resources. The transfer fee represents a notable return and provides flexibility ahead of future recruitment, particularly if reinforcements are required to avoid relegation.
For Paqueta, the move offers a return to familiar surroundings and the opportunity to play a leading role in Brazil’s top flight. Flamengo’s push to secure him before the new season highlights their ambition domestically and in continental competition. As West Ham continue their fight for survival, the departure of one of their most high profile players signals a clear moment of transition, with the club prioritising collective balance and long term planning over individual star power during a critical phase of the campaign.
