Lucas Paqueta in action for West Ham United
Arsenal are plotting a move for attacking midfielder Lucas Paqueta and they are willing to meet West Ham United’s huge asking price, according to a report.
The Lowdown: Arsenal eyeing midfielder
The Gunners are on the lookout for a new midfielder this summer, with Real Madrid’s Marco Asensio emerging as an option in recent days, a signing that Gabby Agbonlahor believes would be ‘perfect’.
Celta Vigo starlet Gabri Veiga is another potential signing for Mikel Arteta, should he choose to make a move for a youngster, and the Gunners are also said to be leading the race for Declan Rice.
The Latest: Paqueta targeted
Now, according to Spanish sources (via West Ham Zone), Arsenal are plotting a move for Paqueta, despite him only moving to West Ham last summer.
The Hammers are set to demand €70m (£62m) to part with the Brazilian, an amount that both the Gunners and Newcastle United would be willing to go close to this summer.
The Verdict: Get it done?
It is clear that the 25-year-old has bags of talent, judging by his last season in Ligue 1 with Lyon, in which he amassed nine goals and six assists in 35 appearances, however he has not got off to a flying start in the Premier League.
The playmaker has picked up just two goals and two assists in the top flight this term, although in fairness his season has been blighted by injury troubles, having had to deal with a serious shoulder problem.
Although there is every chance that Paqueta could kick on and become a top player, having been hailed as ‘phenomenal’ by sections of the media, £62m is too much for someone yet to prove themselves in England, and Arsenal should prioritise other targets.
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