Lucas Paquetá has revealed how close he came to signing for Manchester City in 2023, admitting that the collapse of the deal — caused by betting allegations later proven false — remains one of the most difficult moments of his career.
Speaking to Globo Esporte, the West Ham United midfielder said the transfer was days away from completion before the English FA’s investigation halted everything. Though he was officially cleared of any wrongdoing in July, the Brazilian says the incident cost him what could have been the biggest step of his professional journey.
“Everyone knows I had a transfer to City”
Paquetá described the emotional toll of watching his dream move to Pep Guardiola’s side disintegrate almost overnight.
“Everyone knows that I really had a transfer to City. I probably would have signed the week I received the letter [from the English FA],” he said.
“Professionally speaking, I lost that — that transfer, a leap in my career. Psychologically, I think that’s where I was most affected, by the fear of indecision and the uncertainty of my future.”
The 28-year-old added that despite knowing his own innocence, the manner in which the investigation was handled caused considerable stress for both him and his family.
“Due to the circumstances of the investigations and the way the federation handled everything, it generated fear in us,” he explained.
Two years of frustration and lost momentum
Paquetá’s transfer saga began in August 2023, when reports in England and Brazil suggested he was on the verge of completing a £70 million move to Manchester City. However, the deal collapsed when the FA launched an inquiry into suspicious betting activity involving games he played in.
For nearly two years, Paquetá maintained his innocence, cooperating fully with authorities. His eventual clearance brought relief — but also a lingering sense of what might have been.
| Stat (2025/26) | Lucas Paquetá |
|---|---|
| Appearances | 12 |
| Goals | 4 |
| Assists | 3 |
| Contract Until | 2027 (+1 year option) |
| Transfer Value | ~£35 million |
source: Transfermarkt – 14 November 2025
Future still open despite City heartbreak
While the FA investigation closed one door, speculation about a potential revival of Manchester City’s interest persists. Brazilian journalist Jorge Nicola reported in August that City had made informal contact again in recent windows, though no formal approach was made last summer.
Paquetá, for his part, remains focused on West Ham’s season under Nuno Espírito Santo, where he continues to be one of their most influential players. With four goals in 12 appearances this season, the playmaker has shown resilience in returning to form despite the off-field turbulence.
Our View: Paquetá’s story reflects football’s human side
In our view, Paquetá’s openness offers a rare look at the psychological weight of modern football’s off-pitch pressures. While cleared of any wrongdoing, the emotional cost of losing a career-defining transfer lingers — yet his performances this season show a player determined to rebuild his reputation through focus and consistency.
Whether Manchester City revisit their interest or not, Paquetá’s maturity and mental strength have shone through. For now, West Ham appear to have a player more motivated than ever to prove his elite quality.
Key Insights
- Paquetá confirms he was “inches away” from signing for Manchester City in 2023.
- The move collapsed due to FA betting allegations — later dismissed in July 2025.
- The midfielder said the experience caused psychological strain and career frustration.
- West Ham star has four goals in 12 games this season under Nuno Espírito Santo.
- Manchester City and Pep Guardiola have not ruled out future interest.
What’s Next
Paquetá is expected to feature for Brazil in their upcoming World Cup qualifiers before returning to Premier League action with West Ham later this month. With his name cleared and form improving, the 28-year-old will be looking to turn past disappointment into renewed ambition.
👉 West Ham fans — should Paquetá stay and lead Nuno’s project forward, or do you think a big move abroad could still happen next summer?
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