Lucas Paqueta could be just what Tottenham needs after missing out on Eberechi Eze.
Daniel Levy was humiliated when Arsenal hijacked Eze’s transfer hours before the pen was to be put to paper. This represents a resounding failure on the chairman’s behalf.
Tottenham missed out on Morgan Gibbs-White after he decided to extend at Nottingham Forest. Meanwhile, Johnny Cardoso signed with Atletico Madrid despite an agreement with Real Betis to sign him at a discounted price.
But all could be forgiven if Levy gets Paqueta’s transfer over the line before 1 September.
This article includes exclusive comments from Lilywhite Rose owner John Wenham.
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Mohammed Kudus’ transfer paves the way for Lucas Paqueta
Tottenham signed Mohammed Kudus from West Ham earlier this summer. The Ghanaian has settled into life at Hotspur Way.
After he stunned spectators in Spurs’ defeat to PSG in the UEFA Super Cup final, he shocked fans again when he assisted Richarlison’s spectacular double against Burnley in the Premier League.
It is well documented that Paqueta would be keen on a fresh challenge next season. Lilywhite Rose owner John Wenham – speaking exclusively to Tottenham News – believes Kudus’ deal could prompt West Ham to sell Paqueta to Spurs this summer for around £40million.
“My left field suggestion at this point, keeping in mind that Tottenham have already done a deal with West Ham this summer, is we now go and get Paqueta,” Wenham said.
“The fact that we’ve gone in and got a player from West Ham already tells me a deal could be done, whether they would sell twice in one summer, I don’t know, but I would now go and get Paqueta, and I think it’s an outstanding player.
“I think he’s probably available for £40-45m. I think there’s better value in that deal than spending £80m, plus what they’re now talking about on Savinho.”
Is Lucas Paqueta a better fit for Tottenham?
Eze spent quite a bit of his game time for Palace on the wings last season. But there are several conclusions to be drawn if comparing his 2023/24 season with Paqueta’s 2024/25 season.
The Englishman is an excellent carrier of the ball, with him recording 97.1 carries to the Brazilian’s 49.1. He also eclipses Paqueta in his percentage of forward passes and made slightly more key passes.
However, the Hammer’s star is stronger on every other metric. Progressive passes and possession won are two standouts. Paqueta recorded 86.3 in progressive passes to Eze’s 27.4, while his possession won stands at 66.1 to his competitor’s 9.1.
All things considered, Paqueta slightly edges Eze as the better signing for Tottenham. His attacking prowess, coupled with his defensive skills, offers completeness that the future Arsenal midfielder lacks.