Lucas Paqueta breaks silence on West Ham future amid Man City transfer interest

Lucas Paqueta has insisted he is ‘happy’ at West Ham United and said he is only focused on performing for the London club.

The Brazilian was a transfer target for Manchester City last summer but an investigation into a betting allegation in his homeland prevented the Premier League champions pursuing a deal. City remain interested in Paqueta this summer and, should the investigation be concluded in Brazil, could attempt to sign the midfielder.

At this stage, City feel one of their high-profile stars may have to leave in order for a deal to happen, but financially it’s a transfer the Blues can afford.

Paqueta hasn’t spoken publicly about the matter since news of City’s renewed interest broke, but was asked about his future after West Ham’s 2-2 draw against Liverpool on Saturday

"I have to do my work here at West Ham," Paqueta told ESPN’s Joao Castelo-Branco. "I have an enormous respect for the club. I'm very happy here, and if I don't say that, I'd be lying.

"Of course, there are a lot of things happening off the pitch but I am focused on doing my best and end the season on a high. I started well and intend on finishing [the season] well. What has been said about Man City is all stuff from the previous transfer window. Now it's about finishing the season and to wait and see what will happen."

Paqueta has scored eight goals in 40 appearances for West Ham this season, and is seen as a player who could add real quality to City’s ranks.