Brazilian stalwart on United’s radar unlikely to leave English club in January – report

Manchester United’s quest to add a new midfielder to their squad in January is well documented. The middle of the park remains one of the weak spots in Ruben Amorim’s setup, despite Bruno Fernandes having grown into the pivot role this season. Casemiro has been impressive as well, but he is already on the wrong side of 30 and out of contract this summer. Manuel Ugarte has struggled to make an impact, while Kobbie Mainoo continues to be linked with an exit from Old Trafford in the winter. The Englishman is reportedly a target for West Ham United, and recent reports suggest that the Red Devils also have their eyes on one of Nuno Espirito Santo’s players. United want Lucas Paqueta According to a recent report relayed by The Peoples Person, United are eyeing a move for Lucas Paqueta in January. The Brazilian midfielder has been in fine form this season, registering four goals in 11 appearances in all competitions for West Ham United. Lucas Paqueta stats: 2025/26 CompetitionPlayedGoalsAssistsYellow CardsRed CardsMinutes Premier League103-4-878′ EFL Cup11—90′ Total114-4-968′ Source: TransfermarktPaqueta is expected to take the next step in his career in 2026, and United are reportedly prepared to bring him to Old Trafford at the turn of the year. He could even serve as a long-term replacement for Casemiro at the club. According to acclaimed journalist Fabrizio Romano, the Red Devils are not in direct talks with the London club regarding a move for the player in January. A separate report has since shed light on the Hammers’ stance over a potential transfer. Paqueta firmly in West Ham United’s plans According to Clarets and Hugh, West Ham United will not entertain the idea of Paqueta’s departure in January. A source who contacted the club was reportedly told: “We will not sell Lucas Paquetá. He’s going nowhere. We are not looking to get relegated.” The Brazilian is under contract until 2027 and has yet to sign an extension. If United fail to secure his signature at the turn of the year, they could have another opportunity to move for him in the summer. However, a source close to the 28 year old also confirmed that the player is settled at the London Stadium, stating: “Paquetá is not pushing for a move.” While the Red Devils could miss out on Paqueta in the winter, they have several alternatives on their radar. One of them is Brighton & Hove Albion’s Carlos Baleba, who was also a target in the summer. A deserved spot in the @EASPORTSFC Team of the Week for Lucas Paquetá 👏🇧🇷#FC26 pic.twitter.com/HUIWTAHPZL — West Ham United (@WestHam) November 5, 2025 Featured image Justin Setterfield via Getty Images The Peoples Person has been one of the world’s leading Man United news sites for over a decade. Follow us on Bluesky: @peoplesperson.bsky.social Deepungsu Pandit Deepungsu has been a Manchester United fan since 2000. In his playing days, he was an attacking midfielder with a proclivity for the back heel. Right now, however, he prefers to operate as a regista. Deepungsu has been writing about the Red Devils, Football, and other things since 2009. He has worked for over seven years with Sportskeeda, writing football reviews, opinions and news articles. Deepungsu also maintains a blog, The Thinking Me, where he writes about life and things that interest him. His favourite Manchester United player is Paul Scholes.