Michael Carrick is actively pursuing a significant addition to Manchester United’s roster by requesting the signing of West Ham midfielder Lucas Paqueta.
Anticipation surrounds Carrick’s expected announcement as United’s interim manager for the remainder of the season, set to unfold this week. Reports suggest he will have financial backing for the January transfer window, positioning him to make impactful choices.
Paqueta’s performance in the 2025/26 Premier League season showcases potential worth investing in:
- 4 goals and 1 assist across 18 games.
- 23 key passes delivered.
- 95 progressive passes demonstrating his ability to move the ball forward.
- 16 successful take-ons with a 34% success rate.
- 39 tackles with 22 won, indicating his defensive involvement.
Manchester United opted for an interim management strategy after parting ways with Ruben Amorim at the start of January, aiming to appoint a permanent manager by summer. Leading candidates include England’s Thomas Tuchel and the Champions League-winning coach Luis Enrique from Paris Saint-Germain. However, the spotlight is firmly on Carrick as he takes charge.
The 44-year-old’s primary goal is to secure a Champions League spot for the Red Devils, with achieving fifth place in the Premier League appearing viable. Currently positioned seventh, United faces a journey ahead.
As Carrick steps into this role, there’s a promising likelihood he will possess the financial resources needed to make strategic signings, with a midfielder being his foremost target.
One standout candidate is Ruben Neves from Al Hilal, known to be available for around £20 million, presenting an enticing opportunity for the club. The addition could bolster the squad considerably.
According to Hooligan Soccer, Carrick’s initial transfer request centers on West Ham’s playmaker, Paqueta. It has surfaced that Paqueta is eager to return to Brazil, with Flamengo willing to pay approximately £30 million for his services.
The Brazilian seems determined to leave West Ham, reportedly agreeing to personal terms with Flamengo, even accepting a pay cut for a move back home. With the summer World Cup approaching, Paqueta is intent on returning to Brazil, yet Manchester United could complicate his plans.
Carrick is keen to broaden his player options and has officially made his request to United’s management regarding Paqueta.
Despite Carrick’s aspirations, it is anticipated that he will have limited influence over transfer decisions. The final authority in incoming transfers will likely rest with director of football Jason Wilcox. This scenario suggests a layer of complexity in executing Carrick’s vision.
Previously, Paqueta was linked with a transfer to Manchester City, which was derailed by an FA investigation into alleged betting irregularities, impacting the player on a personal level. A return to Brazil may serve as a fresh start for Paqueta amidst the ongoing turbulence at Old Trafford.
However, the allure of joining one of England’s premier clubs might still entice him to remain in the Premier League, creating an interesting dilemma for the player.
