Lucas Paqueta has been strongly linked with an expensive transfer to Pep Guardiola’s treble-winning Manchester City in recent weeks, but the move has fallen apart — and now the Brazil international could be facing a suspension from the governing body of English soccer.
The FA is reportedly investigating Paqueta over a number of alleged betting violations over the course of 2023, and the probe might have a significant impact on the attacking midfielder’s playing future — wherever it lies.
Accusations against Paqueta
Paqueta, who was left out of Brazil’s squad for upcoming World Cup qualifiers, has become the subject of scrutiny after an initial investigation traced back to Brazil bets that Paqueta — or a person claiming to represent him — placed with bookmakers there.
Paqueta is West Ham United’s record signing, and the 25-year-old has been on Man City’s list, as Guardiola has sought a replacement for Ilkay Gundogan. But reports emerged this week that the proposed $90 million transfer had collapsed — and the pending FA investigation has been pinpointed as the main cause.
A player in shock
Paqueta has not issued an official statement about the accusations or the investigation, but he is reportedly “shocked” by the allegations levied against him — especially as it has derailed a marquee transfer and a larger contract.
West Ham manager David Moyes is expected to be in the Hammers’ squad this weekend for their match against Chelsea, but his eligibility for selection in future matches is up in the air. The FA has been very strict in enforcing its gambling regulations in recent years, suspending right-back Kieran Trippier in 2021 when he played for Atletico Madrid and handing Brentford forward Ivan Toney an eight-month suspension for over 200 violations.
