Former Tottenham manager and pundit Tim Sherwood has delivered a brutal assessment of Lucas Paquetá's future at West Ham United, declaring the Brazilian's career with the Hammers effectively over following the Football Association's betting charges.
Sherwood didn't mince words when discussing the situation, stating that the ongoing investigation has created an untenable position for both player and club. "His career at West Ham is dead," Sherwood asserted during his appearance on talkSPORT.
The Betting Scandal That Changed Everything
The FA shocked the football world last year when they charged Paquetá with allegedly deliberately receiving yellow cards in Premier League matches against Leicester City, Aston Villa, and Leeds United. The investigation centres around suspicious betting patterns connected to these incidents.
Despite maintaining his innocence, the 26-year-old midfielder now faces a potentially career-defining decision. Sherwood believes the damage has already been done, regardless of the investigation's outcome.
Manchester City's Failed Move Haunts Hammers
The timing couldn't be worse for West Ham, who were on the verge of securing a massive £85 million transfer fee last summer. Manchester City had identified Paquetá as a key target and were prepared to meet West Ham's valuation until the betting allegations emerged, causing the deal to collapse immediately.
Sherwood suggests the club should cut their losses, stating: "They should have sold him, but they couldn't because of the betting allegations. I think they will sell him now."
What's Next for Paquetá and West Ham?
The Brazilian international remains available for selection while the FA continues its investigation, but the cloud of uncertainty continues to hang over both player and club. With potential suitors likely to be wary of the ongoing situation, West Ham may face a difficult task in securing anything close to their previous £85 million valuation.
Sherwood's stark warning serves as a sobering reminder of how quickly a player's fortunes can change in modern football, with off-pitch controversies potentially derailing even the most promising careers.
