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Manchester City continue to monitor a West Ham star but would he fit into the City squad?

Originally posted on Esteemed Kompany | By Adam Marrett | Last updated 3/14/24

A new report from Jack Gaughan of the Daily Mail indicates that Manchester City continues to monitor West Ham star Lucas Paqueta. The Brazilian international has starred for David Moyes this season, and his strong form has kept his name on Manchester City’s radar. With Jack Gaughan reporting on City’s continued interest in Paqueta, where would the West Ham star fit into Pep Guardiola’s squad?

A look at the season stats for Lucas Paqueta shows his versatility. As per transfermarkt.com, the Brazilian has played in a host of positions this season. Transfermarkt reports that Paqueta has played left wing, left midfield, central midfield, as an attacking midfielder and upfront so far this campaign. The versatility of the Brazilian international would be a welcome addition to Pep Guardiola’s squad. With his versatility, Paqueta appears well-suited to slot straight into a role with the world champions.

Across 31 appearances for West Ham this season, Paqueta had added 6 assists and scored 6 goals in all competitions. While his statistics don’t jump off the page, his impact for David Moyes side does. The West Ham star possesses a devastating range of passing that is an integral piece of West Ham’s game. He has been an instrumental player for the Hammers this season. Paqueta also has the ability to arrive in the box late from midfield. That ability would be a welcome boost to Pep Guardiola’s squad. The highlights below showcase Paqueta’s all-around game and what he could potentially bring to the Etihad.

To have this highlight reel solely from the group stages is just magic.

Lucas Paqueta pic.twitter.com/n2MUX4gHa4

— West Ham (C)entral (@WestHam_Central) January 13, 2024

As a player, Lucas Paqueta appears readymade to slot into Manchester City’s squad. He possesses the technical ability and workrate required to become an integral player at the world champions if he were to arrive at the club.

Also included in Jack Gaughan’s report for the Daily Mail is the potential of the ongoing betting investigation from the FA into Lucas Paqueta blocking any deal for the midfielder. Gaughan also reports that there is an £86 million release clause in Paqueta’s contract that becomes active this summer. If the Brazilian is cleared of any wrongdoing, it appears a simple deal for Manchester City to complete this summer.

On closer inspection, the West Ham star appears to tick every box required to be a Manchester City player. It may become a story to monitor in the summer as City look to improve their squad.

This article first appeared on Esteemed Kompany and was syndicated with permission.

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