Overview
- Sources including Fabrizio Romano report Lucas Paquetá has formally asked to return to Flamengo after agreeing personal terms with the Brazilian club.
- Flamengo are preparing bids in the region of £30m to £35m, with reports of an initial £30.3m proposal and scope to increase the offer.
- Talks have included a buy-and-loan-back arrangement, and West Ham are understood to be open to a deal that keeps Paquetá in London until season’s end.
- The Brazilian calendar starting in March makes a loan-back feasible, with the clubs holding discussions on timing and conditions.
- Nuno Espírito Santo says Paquetá is receiving treatment for a back issue and wants the situation resolved, while some reports dispute the injury and suggest it could be a push to force the move.