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Brazilian star set to snub Tottenham as PL rivals ‘close in’ on his signature; player keen on project

Originally posted on To The Lane And Back
By Aaryan Choksi | Last updated Aug 31, 2025 9:59 AM ET

Aston Villa moving fast to land Tottenham Hotspur target Lucas Paqueta

It has certainly been a rollercoaster summer for Tottenham fans this time around. The Lilywhites have gone through a lot of chopping and changing in the squad as we approach the business-end of the transfer window. Yet, there is still an issue that remains unresolved despite Daniel Levy’s best efforts to address it in the transfer market.

The North London club are still in need of a new #10 as they look to replace James Maddison for this season. The England international ruptured his ACL earlier this month, which means that he is set to miss out on most parts of the campaign. And his unavailability has meant that there is a massive void in the midfield that needs to be addressed immediately.

It is also fair to point out that Spurs were screaming out for a new attacking midfielder during their defeat against Bournemouth. The Lilywhites had nothing to show for while attacking, and the lack of creative flair in the squad meant that the club had to rely on set-pieces and counter-pressing. So, Daniel Levy must sign a new #10 before the window shuts to give Thomas Frank a good chance of making this season a success.

Tottenham look set to miss out on West Ham star Lucas Paqueta

Tottenham are still not done in the transfer market after signing Xavi Simons from RB Leipzig earlier this week. The Lilywhites still need to address some issues and bring in James Maddison’s replacement before the window shuts. With time running out, Daniel Levy needs to work his magic and sign a quality player quickly.

It was reported earlier that Spurs were keen on signing West Ham star Lucas Paqueta. The Lilywhites viewed the Brazil international as a perfect replacement of James Maddison. And the 27-year-old was also believed to be keen on a summer switch to N17. The report also stated that the Hammers would be open to sell the attacker and lowered their asking price from £80m to £40m.

Understand Aston Villa are closing in on Lucas Paquetá deal with West Ham!

£47m package including loan fee, obligation to buy and add-ons.

Paquetá has accepted #AVFC move, keen on project and ready to join.

Here we go, expected soon. pic.twitter.com/SS8Nzq3Sxv
— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) August 30, 2025

However, Tottenham have now received a massive setback in their efforts to sign Paqueta. As per Fabrizio Romano (via X) , Aston Villa are advancing in talks to sign the 27-year-old before the transfer window shuts. West Ham have accepted Villa’s offer of £47m to sign the Brazilian on an initial loan, which will then be converted into a permanent deal. Romano also states that Paqueta is keen to move to Villa Park and work under Unai Emery.

This is a massive blow for Spurs as they continue their search for a new attacking midfielder. With not long left to go in the transfer market, the Lilywhites must do everything they can to find a replacement quickly. Not being able to sign a new #10 would force Thomas Frank to play Pape Matar Sarr in an advanced role more often than not.

This article first appeared on To The Lane And Back and was syndicated with permission.

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