Redaction Simon Brett with James Thompson
Published on 2024-02-03 18:30:00
It has been reported that Manchester City will not be using Kalvin Phillips as part of a swap deal to sign Lucas Paqueta this summer. Last summer, City attempted to sign the Brazilian from West Ham United. Now, the two clubs have been in contact again as Phillips has made a move to the London Stadium, where he will stay for the remainder of the season on loan.
As the next summer transfer period approaches, behind-the-scenes details have been revealed regarding West Ham’s stance on a potential deal that would see the two players swap clubs permanently. A recent report from The Athletic suggests that Phillips’ arrival will have no bearing on Paqueta’s potential departure to Manchester City in the summer. West Ham has no plans to include Paqueta in a deal with Phillips to ensure the latter’s signing becomes permanent.
Since joining the east London club in 2022, Paqueta has made 68 appearances for West Ham, scoring 10 goals and providing 13 assists. Although West Ham has finally secured the signature of Phillips, they are not willing to entertain a deal that would see them lose Paqueta in order to sign the Englishman permanently. This suggests that the only way City could land Paqueta is by paying his release clause.
Looking ahead to the upcoming summer transfer window, the potential next steps for both players will be interesting to keep an eye on once the season ends. It seems that a deal between the two clubs involving Phillips and Paqueta is unlikely, and City will have to pay the release clause to secure the Brazilian.
Read Original article on Manchester City News
