A Brazilian star is playing his cards right ahead of a potential Manchester City move

Wet Ham United’s Brazilian star Lucas Paqueta is playing his cards in the correct manner ahead of a potential summer move to Manchester City.

Lucas Paqueta has been linked with a potential summer move to the world champions. Will Pickworth has previously reported for the Daily Mail that Manchester City sees the player as the ideal player to replace Bernardo Silva.

Speaking before Brazil take on England this weekend, Paqueta remained respectful of West Ham when asked about a potential move to Manchester City. The Brazilian star said: “I have a lot of respect for West Ham. I’ve had a very good season, and this has helped me a lot in my evolution in the Premier League. Out of respect for them, I have to remain focused on my work.”

The Brazilian international also commented on the ongoing betting investigation into his activity. The FA investigation saw a potential summer move to the Etihad collapse for Paqueta. Speaking on the investigation, Paqueta told the media: “It’s been seven months since it’s been happened and I’m co-operating, doing what’s in my power so that it can be resolved.”

READ MORE: Manchester City continues to monitor West Ham star

West Ham’s Brazilian star is playing his cards in the correct manner ahead of a potential move to Manchester City. Rather than force the issue, Paqueta has remained respectful of his current club. Paqueta’s comments show that while he may dream of a move to Pep Guardiola’s side at this stage, there isn’t any need to force the matter with the summer transfer window still months away.

Fabrizio Romano has previously reported that there is a £85 million release clause in Paqueta’s contract. The clause reportedly becomes active this summer. With the release clause in play, there doesn’t appear to be a need for Paqueta to take any drastic action if Manchester City comes calling in the summer.

Given the statement from Paqueta, it gives the impression he will remain respectful of West Ham ahead of a potential summer move. Manchester City midfielder Matheus Nunes went on strike before sealing his move from Wolves to the treble winners last season. The move by Nunes did see the Portuguese international seal his move to City, but it did leave a sour taste in the mouths of Wolverhampton Wanderers and their fans.

At this stage, it appears that Lucas Paqueta will not be going down the same route. The Brazilian star does appear to be playing his cards right ahead of a potential summer move to Manchester City.