Lucas Paquetá weighing January exit as West Ham struggles deepen

Lucas Paquetá is reportedly considering a January 2026 exit from West Ham United as frustration grows over the club’s poor form and uncertain direction.

According to ESPN Brazil, the midfielder has been pondering a move for some time but has recently revisited the idea as West Ham’s Premier League campaign has taken a nosedive. The Hammers currently sit 19th in the table, prompting fears of a relegation battle that could derail the Brazilian’s international ambitions ahead of the 2026 World Cup.

English reports earlier this week hinted that Paquetá might look for a way out, and those claims have now been strengthened by sources in Brazil. Despite the club’s insistence that he remains a key player, the midfielder is said to be “disappointed” with the situation in East London.

The 28-year-old remains one of West Ham’s standout talents, producing three goals in ten appearances so far this season. His performances have been one of the few bright spots in an otherwise gloomy campaign, but sources close to the player say he’s increasingly worried that a relegation fight could damage his standing with the Brazil national team.

With the World Cup now less than a year away, Paquetá knows that remaining in top form — and at a competitive level — is essential to securing a place in Dorival Júnior’s squad.

The Hammers’ hierarchy view Paquetá as a cornerstone of their rebuild under new manager Nuno Espírito Santo, who replaced Potter earlier this month. Club sources insist they have no intention of selling their creative lynchpin mid-season, especially given the lack of depth in attacking midfield.

However, much may depend on results in the coming weeks. If West Ham fail to climb out of the bottom three before January, the board could face renewed pressure from Paquetá’s camp to sanction an exit — either through a big-money sale or a conditional loan move.

Paquetá’s future looked brighter in July when he was officially cleared of FA betting allegations that had clouded the final months of last season. The clearance allowed him to start fresh, and he entered the 2025/26 campaign determined to help West Ham rebound after a turbulent year.

Yet despite his professionalism and consistent performances, the lack of progress under successive managers has left him mentally fatigued. ESPN Brazil reports that Paquetá has discussed his options with his representatives, including potential interest from Manchester City, who were previously close to signing him in 2023 before the betting probe halted negotiations.

In our view, Paquetá’s situation mirrors that of many elite players caught between personal ambition and club instability. His body language in recent matches suggests frustration, but also a deep sense of responsibility.

West Ham, meanwhile, can’t afford to lose him mid-season — both in terms of quality and morale. If Nuno can spark a short-term revival, Paquetá might be convinced to stay until summer. But if results don’t improve, a high-profile January exit feels increasingly inevitable.

West Ham face Newcastle United on 2 November 2025, followed by a crucial run of fixtures before the winter window opens. Results in the next month may determine whether Paquetá’s patience holds — or if he becomes one of January’s biggest transfer stories.

👉 West Ham fans — should the club keep hold of Paquetá at all costs, or cash in before things turn sour?

By John William — FootballPlace.co.uk ·