Flamengo are exploring the possibility of loaning Lucas Paqueta back to West Ham United in a bid to seal a move for the Brazil international this month.
BBC Sport reported this week that there is interest from at least two clubs in the attacker’s home country.
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Flamengo are one of them and are prepared to pay around £35m for the attacker.
There are reports that Paqueta is looking to leave, but the Hammers are unwilling to let him go as they face a relegation battle.
However, it is understood that they will consider letting Paqueta join Flamengo during the transfer window, provided that the 28-year-old Paqueta can be loaned back until the end of the season.
Sources say discussions have already taken place between the clubs regarding the impact.
Brazil’s top flight doesn’t start until March, which could theoretically clear the way for such a deal.
But whether Paqueta agrees to stay in London until the final game of the season in May may depend on how close West Ham are to safety.
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They are currently seven points behind Nottingham Forest in 17th place.
Paqueta missed last weekend’s FA Cup third round win over Queens Park Rangers, prompting insiders to suggest he did not feature because he wanted to leave.
However, club sources insist Paqueta’s absence is due to a minor injury.
It now remains to be seen whether Paqueta will be selected for Saturday’s Premier League match against Tottenham Hotspur.
West Ham United manager Nuno Espirito Santo says the club needs to find answers as soon as possible.
Speaking on Thursday, he told reporters: “We always want our best players to be involved and Lucas is one of our best players, so let’s try and sort that out.
“This is a solution we have to find. We as a club, the players and myself.”