Manchester United have reportedly made overtures to Premier League compatriots West Ham United, demonstrating a marked interest in acquiring Brazilian midfielder Lucas Paqueta. Sources indicate that United have reached out to the Hammers as they deliberate over potential reinforcements, spurred by INEOS’s eagerness to facilitate a January swoop.
Since the departure of the legendary Sir Alex Ferguson, Manchester United’s recruitment strategy has often been the target of intense scrutiny. However, this summer marked a turning point as the club embarked on a major squad overhaul. Under the stewardship of Ruben Amorim, United finished a disappointing 15th last season and failed to capture any silverware. In response, the Red Devils became one of Europe’s biggest spenders, reinforcing their attack by securing transfers for Benjamin Sesko, Bryan Mbeumo, and Matheus Cunha, alongside the acquisition of Senne Lammens to assume goalkeeping duties from Andre Onana.
As part of their financial strategy, United sanctioned the departure of several distinguished names, including Rasmus Hojlund, Marcus Rashford, Alejandro Garnacho, and Antony, either on permanent deals or through loan agreements with buy clauses – all executed on advantageous terms for the club. The revised team composition has started to pay dividends on the pitch, easing the pressure on manager Amorim as they clinched successive victories against Sunderland and Liverpool, followed by a triumph over Brighton.
Despite these recent successes, United continue to identify areas for improvement, with the defensive midfield position a particular focal point. According to reports from a well-regarded source on X, featuring a ‘team of five elite reporters,’ the Manchester club has expressed a keen interest in West Ham’s Paqueta, who seems poised to depart the relegation-contending Hammers come January.
The report shared on social media states: “Exclusive: Manchester United have asked for more details from West Ham regarding Lucas Paqueta transfer valuation. We understand @ManUtd are very keen to make the deal in January at fair market valuation. The contact was made on Wednesday lunchtime.”
In terms of alternatives for the No.6 role, Brighton’s Carlos Baleba remains on United’s radar, after a prospective summer transfer failed to materialise. Former United coach Benni McCarthy has endorsed Baleba, touting him as an “ideal” addition to complement the strengths of Casemiro and Kobbie Mainoo in midfield.
McCarthy highlighted the need for United to secure midfield dynamism: “I think Carlos Baleba from Brighton would be perfect. United need more muscle, power, and explosiveness in the midfield. With Casemiro now beyond his prime, planning for life after him is crucial. Bringing in Baleba could leave the midfield in safe hands.”
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