West Ham United could be heading for a significant midfield shake-up in the January transfer window, with reports suggesting that Lucas Paquetá’s future at the London Stadium is in doubt. The Brazilian playmaker, who arrived from Lyon in a £51 million deal in 2022, has been a standout performer for the Hammers despite some inconsistency. However, his time in East London could be nearing its end, as both South American interest and internal reshuffling under new manager Graham Potter come into play.

Paquetá, 27, has been linked with a move away from the Premier League in recent months, with Botafogo reportedly showing interest in securing his services. A return to Brazil, where he began his career with Flamengo, could appeal to the midfielder, particularly if he feels his role at West Ham is diminishing. While the Brazilian international has struggled to find his best form under Julen Lopetegui’s management earlier this season, there is a chance he could improve under Potter, who took over in December. However, the possibility of new signings arriving in January could complicate his position in the team and potentially open the door for an exit.

Reports from journalist Ben Jacobs suggest that West Ham are among the suitors for Chelsea midfielder Carney Chukwuemeka, who is expected to depart Stamford Bridge this month. Chukwuemeka, 21, has struggled for consistent minutes at Chelsea and is reportedly considering a move to link up with Potter, his former manager. A loan move to Strasbourg, Chelsea’s sister club, has been floated as an option, but the opportunity to stay in the Premier League with West Ham could be more appealing, especially if Potter provides assurances about game time.

For West Ham, signing Chukwuemeka would bring youthful energy and a fresh perspective to their midfield. The Englishman’s technical skills and versatility could make him an attractive prospect, but his arrival might also indicate a shift in priorities for Potter. If Chukwuemeka is given a significant role in the second half of the season, it could push Paquetá further down the pecking order, making a January exit more likely.

Paquetá has been one of West Ham’s standout players since his arrival, often showcasing his creativity and flair on the ball. His ability to dictate play in the attacking third has made him a valuable asset, and losing him would be a significant blow to the Hammers. However, his inconsistent performances and the team’s recent struggles have left questions about whether he fits into Potter’s long-term plans. Additionally, West Ham’s interest in younger players like Chukwuemeka signals a possible transition towards a more dynamic and modern midfield setup.

While Botafogo’s interest provides an option for Paquetá to return to familiar surroundings in Brazil, it remains to be seen whether West Ham would sanction a deal in January. The club would likely want to secure a significant fee for a player of Paquetá’s caliber or ensure they have a suitable replacement lined up. Chukwuemeka’s potential arrival on loan could soften the blow of losing Paquetá, but it might take time for the young midfielder to adapt to the demands of playing a central role in a Premier League team fighting for consistency.

The coming weeks will likely prove pivotal for both Paquetá and West Ham. If Potter can integrate the Brazilian into his vision for the team, Paquetá could yet thrive under new management. However, if the club prioritizes developing younger talents like Chukwuemeka and moving in a different direction, the January window could mark the end of Paquetá’s tenure at the London Stadium. His next steps will depend on whether he feels valued and sees a future in East London or opts for a fresh start elsewhere to reignite his career.