Tottenham submit bid for “special” Brazil international with 6 G/A goals this season

Brazil's Vinicius Junior, Bruno Guimaraes, Estevao, Lucas Paqueta and Rodrygo. (REUTERS/Rodolfo Buhrer)

Tottenham Hotspur’s campaign continues to spiral after an encouraging early run gave way to mounting inconsistency under Thomas Frank.

The latest setback came on the south coast, where Spurs suffered a damaging 3–2 defeat to Bournemouth, sealed by a dramatic 95th-minute winner from Antoine Semenyo — his final act before completing a move to Manchester City.

That result has left Spurs languishing in 14th place, uncomfortably close to the relegation scrap and in desperate need of momentum.

With performances faltering and confidence draining, the January transfer window has taken on added importance — and it appears Tottenham have already made a decisive move.

Tottenham have reportedly lodged a bid worth around £26 million for West Ham playmaker Lucas Paquetá, signalling intent to inject quality and creativity into their midfield.

The Brazilian international, described as “special” by former Hammers boss David Moyes, remains under contract until 2027 but could become available if West Ham’s relegation fears deepen.

Reports from Brazilian outlet Torcida Flamengo suggest Spurs have formally entered the race, viewing Paquetá as an ideal fit for Frank’s system thanks to his technical quality and versatility. The 27-year-old has contributed six goals and assists across all competitions this season and remains one of West Ham’s standout performers.

Competition is fierce, however. Flamengo — Paquetá’s boyhood club — are also keen on a reunion and are believed to be banking on the midfielder’s emotional pull toward a return to Brazil.

For Tottenham, though, Paquetá – who has six goals and one assists for West Ham this season – represents more than just a statement signing. He could be the creative catalyst needed to halt their slide and restore belief during a critical second half of the season.

West Ham, meanwhile, are reportedly interested in signing Toulouse defender Dayann Methalie.

Barnaby Lane is a highly experienced sports writer who has written for The Times, FourFourTwo Magazine, Sports Illustrated, TalkSPORT, and Business Insider.

Over the years, he's had the pleasure of interviewing some of the biggest names in world sport, including Usain Bolt, Rafael Nadal, Christian Pulisic, and more.