Get ready, football fans! The highly anticipated return of midfielder Lucas Paqueta to his boyhood club, Flamengo, is tantalizingly close to becoming a reality. The Brazilian giants are on the cusp of finalizing a sensational deal with West Ham, setting the stage for one of South America’s most significant transfers.
Flamengo president, Luiz Eduardo Baptista, has confirmed that negotiations have reached an advanced stage, with much of the groundwork already laid. The 28-year-old maestro, who has been a prominent figure for West Ham, is eager to don the red and black jersey once more.
## A Blockbuster Deal on the Horizon
The agreement between the two clubs centers around a substantial fixed transfer fee of **£35.78 million**. Notably, this figure stands firm, with no performance-related add-ons tied to the deal, simplifying the overall valuation. This hefty sum underscores the magnitude of Paqueta’s impending return and Flamengo’s ambition.
Baptista emphasized the groundbreaking nature of this transaction for South American football, stating, “Let’s be clear: this is a transaction never before done in South America, and we highly value our word and the commitments we make.”
### The Final Hurdle: Payment Structure
While the transfer fee has been meticulously agreed upon, the remaining obstacle lies in the **structure of the payments**. This crucial detail is currently the subject of intense, ongoing discussions between the two clubs.
Speaking at an event, Baptista provided insight into the status of the negotiations: “What I can say is that we are close. We reached an agreement on several aspects, which I consider the most important. Today, the difference is the payment method we will use.” He further revealed the urgency of the situation, adding, “I’m focusing all my energy on resolving this payment obstacle. If it can be done within the next hour, great. If not, let it be in two or three hours. We’re in contact every hour to adjust one thing or another.”
The Flamengo chief acknowledged that West Ham’s needs also play a part in these complex discussions, highlighting the collaborative effort required to finalize such a high-stakes agreement.
## Paqueta’s Eager Anticipation and Flamengo’s Hopes
Lucas Paqueta’s desire to return to Brazil this month is clear. Despite having 18 months remaining on his contract with the Premier League club, where he has been a regular starter under head coach Nuno Espirito Santo, the Brazil international has already agreed personal terms with Flamengo. His new contract with the Brazilian side is set to run until December 2029, signaling a long-term commitment.
### Racing Against the Clock for Super Cup Debut
Flamengo supporters are buzzing with excitement, eagerly hoping the deal will be finalized swiftly enough for Paqueta to be available for Sunday’s highly anticipated Brazilian Super Cup clash against Corinthians. The club’s efforts are primarily focused on making this dream a reality.
### A Shifting Role at West Ham
Paqueta’s recent absence from West Ham’s matchday squads has only fueled speculation surrounding his future. Having last featured for the club on January 6th, he was subsequently left out of successive victories against Queens Park Rangers, Tottenham, and Sunderland as the transfer saga unfolded.
Since joining West Ham from Lyon in the summer of 2022, Paqueta has contributed significantly to the Hammers, scoring four goals and providing one assist in 18 Premier League appearances this season. His departure marks the end of an impactful chapter in England, as he prepares to embark on a new, exciting journey back home.
The football world now watches with bated breath as Flamengo and West Ham work to iron out the final details, hoping to bring this landmark transfer to a successful conclusion and usher Lucas Paqueta back to the Maracanã.