It looks like a David Sullivan masterclass as a major new claim is made which surely seals the transfer destiny of West Ham star Lucas Paqueta.
It goes without saying that West Ham co-owner David Sullivan may divide opinion among supporters.
But the Hammers majority stakeholder looks to have outdone himself with his handling of a delicate situation at the club right now.
Out the blue last week it emerged West Ham star Lucas Paqueta is being investigated by the FA and FIFA over potential betting breaches.
The accusations levelled against Paqueta could result in a ‘multi-year ban’ or even a ‘jail sentence’ if the Hammers ace is found charged and found guilty.
The key word in this scenario – as Hammers News stated last week – was always ‘IF’.
David Sullivan masterclass as major new claim made which surely seals transfer destiny of West Ham star Lucas Paqueta
Allegations against Paqueta reportedly put a big money move to Man City on hold for the time being.
Paqueta scored and starred for West Ham in the 3-1 win over Chelsea on Sunday to lift the dark cloud hanging over his head.
The Brazilian was due to appear before an FA hearing yesterday. And there were fears that should the situation be resolved quickly in the player’s favour then a move to Manchester City would be back on.
But there has been a big twist which will delight West Ham fans who feared they could lose their star man before the deadline.
It’s a Sullivan masterclass as a major new claim is made which surely seals the transfer destiny of West Ham star Paqueta.
Because West Ham’s head honcho has insisted that the hearing be delayed for three weeks until Paqueta’s lawyer is back from holiday and is in receipt of evidence supporting the accusations against his client.
Hearing pushed back beyond transfer deadline and that means one thing
That has been confirmed by Hammers News sources as well as board confidant Sean Whetstone today.
“The FA has failed to provide any evidence of any wrong doing in advance to Lucas Paqueta and his legal team ahead of a hearing,” Whetstone said.
“The hearing which was due to held today has now been delayed for up to three weeks with Paqueta’s lawyers insisting any evidence must be provided in advance.”
That ultimatum from the West Ham hierarchy has been granted. And that means the hearing will now take place around the week commencing September 11th, 10 days after the transfer window closes.
And West Ham fans will be well aware what that means – Paqueta is a Hammer until January at the very least.
A masterstroke from Sullivan because Man City will not reignite their interest unless the matter is settled.
Even then there is no guarantee a conclusion will be reached any time soon.
And if Paqueta is cleared between now and January it may drive his price up even further as so often happens in the winter window should Man City renew their interest.