Lucas Paquetá rejects Saudi offer and opts for return to Flamengo amid uncertainty at West Ham

Lucas Paquetá has decided to return to Flamengo, rejecting lucrative offers from Saudi Arabia and showing little interest in continuing at West Ham United. The Brazilian midfielder is expected to be cleared of ongoing betting-related allegations, which have stalled his career trajectory in Europe.

Flamengo leads the race as Paquetá seeks a fresh start

According to reports from Bolavip Brasil and RTI Esporte, the 26-year-old has turned down a major financial proposal from the Saudi Pro League, prioritizing a return to his boyhood club in Rio de Janeiro over a Middle Eastern adventure.

The decision appears to be rooted in personal reasons. Sources close to the player say Paquetá was emotionally shaken by the betting investigation and wants to be closer to his family during this transitional phase of his career. Flamengo, aware of his situation, has been working quietly to orchestrate a return.

Manchester City still monitoring, but Flamengo is Paquetá’s preference

While Manchester City has shown interest in the past and some English sources claim Pep Guardiola’s team still monitors the player there are currently no concrete negotiations from the Premier League champions. A previously agreed deal with City collapsed last year due to the FA’s betting investigation.

West Ham, too, is preparing for Paquetá’s exit this summer. The midfielder featured in 36 matches last season, scoring five goals, but his future in London has looked increasingly uncertain in recent months.

Flamengo’s gain could come with a loss

While Flamengo fans eagerly anticipate Paquetá’s return, the club may soon face a departure of its own. According to O Dia journalist Fabrício Lopes, Uruguayan midfielder De La Cruz is being pursued by River Plate, who are hopeful of bringing their former star back to Argentina.

The Rio-based side is reportedly working to strengthen its midfield options as uncertainty grows over De La Cruz’s future. Paquetá’s potential arrival would soften that blow and re-establish a powerful midfield for the Brazilian giants.