“One to keep an eye on” – Journalist hints Tottenham could make late hijack move for South American star

The final hours of the summer transfer window are always filled with surprises, and this year, one of the biggest stories could involve a dramatic move across London.

According to emerging reports, Tottenham Hotspur are considering a stunning deadline day swoop for West Ham United’s creative midfielder, Lucas Paqueta.

This potential deal has taken many by surprise, but it underscores the ambitious and strategic thinking happening behind the scenes at the North London club.

Spurs have already enjoyed a productive window, most notably securing the signature of Xavi Simons from RB Leipzig. The Dutch international’s arrival addressed a critical need for creativity in the final third, especially with James Maddison facing a long spell on the sidelines.

However, the opportunity to sign a player of Paqueta’s caliber doesn’t come around often, and it appears the club’s hierarchy is willing to explore the possibility.

The Brazilian playmaker has had a complex journey in English football. After joining West Ham from Lyon in 2022, he quickly became a fan favorite, playing a key role in the club’s Europa Conference League triumph.

However, his time in East London has also been marked by off-field challenges, including an investigation into alleged betting rule breaches, for which he was ultimately cleared.

Despite that resolution, the experience has left Paqueta open to a new challenge, and the chance to join a project like Tottenham’s could be highly appealing.

From Spurs’ perspective, the move makes a lot of sense. Manager Thomas Frank has made an impressive start to his tenure, guiding the team to positive results while implementing an attractive, attacking style of play.

Adding a player of Paqueta’s vision and technical quality would provide another layer of unpredictability and guile to the midfield. His ability to operate in tight spaces, thread decisive passes, and contribute goals would make him a perfect complement to the energy and industry of players like Pape Matar Sarr and João Palhinha.

Financially, the deal is also feasible. West Ham are understood to have set an asking price of around £60 million, a significant but not unreasonable figure for a player of his experience and proven Premier League quality.

Additionally, the potential departure of Yves Bissouma, who has reportedly agreed to personal terms with Galatasaray, could free up both funds and a space in the squad, making this move even more logical.

For Paqueta, the switch would offer Champions League football and the chance to work under a manager known for developing talent and playing progressive football.

Staying in London would also mean minimal disruption for his family, a factor that often plays a crucial role in these decisions.

Of course, any deal of this magnitude is fraught with challenges. Negotiating with a direct rival is never straightforward, and West Ham will be reluctant to strengthen a team they compete with directly.

However, the player’s own desires could ultimately be the deciding factor. As the deadline draws closer, this is one story that could develop quickly.

For Tottenham fans, it’s a tantalizing prospect—a signing that would not only improve the squad but also send a powerful message about the club’s ambitions for the season ahead.