Lucas Paqueta names the two Premier League giants he rejected to join Flamengo

Jan 31, 2026 - 16:00

Lucas Paqueta has revealed that he ignored calls from Premier League pair Chelsea and Tottenham in order to return to Flamengo.

Paqueta moved to West Ham in 2022 and despite rumours of a potential summer 2025 exit, he opted to remain at the London Stadium.

Paqueta made it clear he wanted to stay at West Ham with his August phone celebration

The former AC Milan and Lyon man even signalled his intention to remain with the Hammers with his celebration in West Ham’s 3-0 win at Nottingham Forest in August.

However, the 28-year-old pushed to leave the club in January once it became clear Flamengo were keen on bringing the midfielder back to Brazil.

And following negotiations, Paqueta’s wish came true as he secured a £35m return to South America.

Paq-ing it in

“West Ham United can confirm that Lucas Paquetá has joined Brazilian club Flamengo on a permanent transfer for an undisclosed fee,” a statement read on West Ham’s website.

“Paquetá joined the Hammers in August 2022 and spent three-and-a-half seasons in east London, making 139 appearances and scoring 23 goals.

“The Brazil international midfielder provided the assist for Jarrod Bowen to score West Ham’s winning goal in the 2023 UEFA Europa Conference League final against Fiorentina in Prague.

“Everyone at the Club would like to thank Lucas for his contribution and wish him well in his future career.”

Paqueta was also subject to interest from Chelsea and Spurs but he claims he ignored calls from the duo as he sought to secure a switch to Flamengo.

‘What about Flamengo?’

Speaking with Flamengo TV following his transfer, the player said: “Tottenham called, Chelsea called, and the funny thing is that Tata (his agent) called all excited and said: ‘Chelsea’s calling, they’re gonna make an offer.’

“I replied: ‘Okay, but what about Flamengo?’ He said: ‘Are you serious?’

Lucas Paqueta sent off against Liverpool in the Premier League

Despite two Premier League heavyweights wanting Paquets, he had his heart set on a move back to his homeland[/caption]

“I said: ‘Yeah, I don’t want to know about that. I want to hear about Flamengo,’ and that’s how it all turned out.”

West Ham had hoped that Paqueta would remain at the London Stadium for the second half of the season in order to help their survival push.

However, Paqueta was keen to return to Brazil ahead of the 2026 World Cup.

‘We love you, Flamengo!’

Flamengo fans turned out in their numbers to welcome the player back to Rio.

The day after his return to Brazil, Paqueta penned a thank you message to fans alongside an image of the player and his family kitted out in Flamengo shirts, posting: “I was born to love you, nothing will separate us.

“I’d give up everything in this life just to be with you.

Paqueta departs east London having registered 38 goal contributions in 139 matches for the Hammers[/caption]

“The crazy things I did, the loves I left behind, so many things I lost, but I never abandoned you.

“Many may criticise, but no one will understand, because only those who are Flamengo fans can comprehend me. We love you, Flamengo.

“Glory and honour to God for this unique moment in my life! Process, promise, purpose.”

Fla-ming poor start to the year

Flamengo won the 2025 Brasileirao title, finishing three points clear of Palmeiras.

However, their title defence got off to a poor start as they fell to a 2-1 loss at Sao Paulo.

Flamengo have made a disappointing start to the calendar year having failed to win their opening six matches of 2026 across the Campeonato Paulista and the Brasileirao, losing four times.