Lucas Paqueta’s dreams of joining Manchester City this summer are over, HITC understands.
Paqueta confirmed on Thursday that he had been charged by the Football Association for breaching their betting rules, something which the Brazilian still denies.
Paqueta almost joined City last summer when a deal between City and West Ham was agreed, but at that point the FA announced an investigation was underway and at that point – the two clubs could not proceed.
The Brazilian international and his team have been pressing the FA to accelerate their process with the belief no charges would be brought, but it was confirmed on Thursday that four charges were brought – relating to four Premier League games.
The games in question were against Leicester City on 12 November 2022, and the 2023 clashes with Aston Villa on 12 March , Leeds United on 21 May and Bournemouth on 12 August.
An FA statement said: “It’s alleged that he [Paqueta] directly sought to influence the progress, conduct, or any other aspect of, or occurrence in these matches by intentionally seeking to receive a card from the referee for the improper purpose of affecting the betting market in order for one or more persons to profit from betting.”
Paqueta was also charged with breaching rules in relation to not providing information and documents, but he insists he is not guilty.
“For nine months, I have co-operated with every step of their investigation and provided all the information I can. I deny all the charges in their entirety and will fight with every breath to clear my name,” he said in a statement released via his social media.
Manchester City withdraw interest in Lucas Paqueta deal
Despite, Paqueta’s denials – the decision by the FA has had an immediate impact on his future and HITC is told that City have already informed the player’s representatives that they will not be pursuing a deal for him this summer due to the charges.
Indeed, City understands that City are already working hard on other options as they want to bring in an attacking midfielder to bolster their ranks.
HITC can reveal that City already have a list of options, including in that is German starlet Florian Wirtz – who they checked on again in the Europa League final – but it is understood he has already pledged to stay with Bayer Leverkusen.
Man City like RB Leipzig duo Dani Olmo and Xavi Simons
Other options that City like include RB Leipzig duo Dani Olmo and Xavi Simons.
Simons is set to return to Paris Saint-Germain this summer, but he is set for another loan and although City are one of the sides to show an interest, HITC revealed earlier this month that he wants to join Barcelona at this point – but he remains an option.
His team-mate Olmo is another who City like and he is set to be available for around £50million – which is actually cheaper than a possible deal for Paqueta.
Olmo has a release clause allowing him to leave this summer – but that expires in mid-July, although a buyer may be more inclined to try and strike a deal with Leipzig for the 26-year-old.
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