Newcastle United manager Eddie Howe has revealed that the Magpies considered trying to sign West Ham United midfielder Lucas Paqueta before he joined the Hammers.
West Ham signed the Brazilian midfielder from Olympique Lyonnais for £35.6million in the summer transfer window, a move that could rise to as high as £52.7m if all potential future add-ons are triggered.
Paqueta is a close friend of Newcastle star Bruno Guimaraes, with the Brazilian midfielders both playing together at Lyon and in Brazil’s 2022 World Cup squad together.
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Prior to joining West Ham, Paqueta was heavily linked with interest from Newcastle, who play host to the Hammers on Saturday.
Howe has been asked about whether he tried to sign Paqueta last summer, with the Magpies boss revealing he liked Paqueta, although a move was never close.
Newcastle’s manager also added that Paqueta’s partnership with West Ham captain Declan Rice is one his side must be wary of.
“It was never close, but we certainly admire the player greatly,” said Howe in his pre-match press conference.
“There are loads of different reasons (it didn’t happen), transfer fees etc. He’s an outstanding talent, and plays in a number of positions.
“He gives West Ham something totally different in the middle of the pitch. We’re certainly preparing for a tough game, because him and (Declan) Rice are excellent players.”
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