News that West Ham star Lucas Paquetá wants to leave the London Stadium has spread quickly through the transfer grapevine.

Earlier this week, reports suggested the Brazilian midfielder was seeking an exit in the January window. However, Claret & Hugh were later informed by our top transfer insider that Paquetá would remain in East London for now — but is expected to depart at the end of the campaign.

Now, new claims have emerged suggesting Manchester United have made contact in an effort to sign the ‘Paq-man’.

Manchester United Make Their Move

An ITK account named Indykaila News — who, I’m told, has been fairly reliable on previous updates — stated that Manchester United made contact with West Ham on Wednesday.

“Manchester United have asked for more details from West Ham regarding Lucas Paquetá’s transfer valuation.
We understand Manchester Utd are very keen to make the deal in January at fair market valuation. The contact was made on Wednesday lunchtime.”

Quite who decides what “fair market valuation” means is anyone’s guess, but it seems as if Manchester United believe they’re doing little old West Ham a favour.

No doubt a firm “hands off” warning will soon be issued by...