Lucas Paqueta, the West Ham midfielder, is likely to be available for the majority of next season despite facing spot-fixing charges, according to a report.

Paqueta, 26, stands accused of deliberately picking up yellow cards in four Premier League matches, which could lead to a 10-year ban from football if found guilty. However, his complex case is expected to take several months to resolve, and he will likely be eligible to play for West Ham until the disciplinary process is completed.

The Brazilian playmaker has denied any wrongdoing and has expressed his surprise at the charges. His defence lawyers believe it will take several months to gather all relevant information, including important documents and witness statements, due to the complexity of the case, which spans three countries: England, Brazil, and Spain.

West Ham, who are gearing up for their first campaign under new manager Julen Lopetegui, were reportedly approached by Brazilian outfit Flamengo over a potential loan move for Paqueta, but are now confident the midfielder will be available for the majority of next term.

Lucas Paqueta ‘can play for West Ham for most of next season’ despite his spot-fixing charges

The FA’s sanctioning guidelines state that players found guilty of spot-fixing could face a ban of between six months and life. Paqueta’s case has sparked controversy, with many questioning the fairness of the charges.

Paqueta came under scrutiny for four bookings in particular, the first of which is above

Paqueta’s representatives were initially given until June 3 to respond to the FA, but were granted an extension to gather more evidence. The case has been ongoing since August 2023, when Mail Sport exclusively broke the story of Paqueta’s betting probe, which led to the collapse of his prospective £85million move to Premier League champions Manchester City.

A tackle on Aston Villa midfielder John McGinn was also one that triggered alarms

Leeds’ Crysencio Summerville was taken out by Paqueta, who was booked for this tackle

Paqueta was under investigation when he picked up the yellow card against Bournemouth

Paqueta has expressed his surprise at the charges and continues to deny any wrongdoing

Share or comment on this article:

Lucas Paqueta ‘can play for West Ham for almost ALL of next season’ despite spot-fixing charges – with complex case set to drag on for months