Fresh reports suggest that Lucas Paquetá is now expected to be cleared of all charges in the ongoing FA investigation into alleged betting breaches, with former Everton CEO Keith Wyness claiming the Brazilian will be found innocent.
Speaking to Football Insider, Wyness stated his sources are confident Paqueta will face no punishment, adding fuel to growing optimism surrounding the midfielder’s situation.
Ex Update Paquetá Expected to Be Cleared But Exit Still on the Cards
West Ham United, however, remain in the dark about what this means for Paqueta’s future in claret and blue. According to trusted insider @ExWHUEmployee, there is belief within the club that Paqueta will indeed be found innocent. But even if that happens, it doesn’t guarantee he’ll play for the Hammers again.
Interest in the Brazilian playmaker has ramped up. Yesterday, it was reported that a major offer from the Saudi Pro League is expected if the FA clears him, with several Brazilian sides and Premier League clubs also continuing to monitor developments.
Related Article: West Ham Prepared to Sell Paquetá if Spot-Fixing Case Clears
Saudi Pro League Bid Gearing Up as Transfer Interest Grows
Multiple reports point to a significant Saudi Arabian bid being prepared for Paqueta, should the expected verdict go in his favour. While there’s no official offer at time of writing, sources indicate the move could escalate quickly once the FA announces its final decision.
The midfielder is attracting attention across the board, with Premier League rivals and Brazilian clubs all thought to be putting plans in place. Should the charges be dropped, Paqueta could quickly become one of the summer’s most in-demand midfielders.
Cautious Confidence Within West Ham Over Paqueta Outcome
Inside West Ham, there’s cautious confidence that Paqueta will be cleared. As Claret & Hugh report, club insiders are optimistic about a favourable outcome from the FA investigation, which has dragged on since it began back in August 2023.
In the meantime, Paqueta has continued training at Rush Green and remains part of the first-team group. However, no guarantees have been made about his long-term role at West Ham. With increased transfer noise circling, the vibe is starting to shift toward a possible parting of ways.
Verdict on Paqueta Could Arrive by End of July
A final judgement is expected to come by the end of this month, according to WestHamZone. Paqueta and those around him are said to be growing frustrated by the lack of resolution, especially now that pre-season duties are underway.
The case focuses on whether he deliberately picked up yellow cards to benefit betting patterns. Notably, Paqueta himself hasn’t placed any bets, setting his situation apart from other well-known cases this year.
Key Differences Between Paqueta and Other Betting Cases
The FA recently banned Cheltenham striker Ryan Bowman for 42 months after it was revealed he placed over 6,000 bets, including mid-game wagers. The charges were described as an extreme breach of footballing integrity.
In contrast, Paquetá is not accused of any direct betting activity. Allegations instead centre on whether friends or individuals close to him placed small-stake bets linked to his on-pitch bookings. The lower scale and indirect involvement could end up playing a major role in his favour when the FA reaches its final call.
West Ham May Still Lose Star Midfielder Regardless of Verdict
Even with an expected clearing, the chances of keeping Paqueta aren’t guaranteed. The anticipated Saudi offer, alongside interest from clubs in Brazil and the Premier League, shows the level of competition for his signature.
Despite being one of West Ham’s most technically gifted players, the sense around the club now feels like a crossroads moment. Whether cleared or not, a transfer away feels likelier with every passing day.
The next few weeks could prove vital in determining where Paquetá plays his football next season — and whether it will still be at the London Stadium.
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