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Lucas Paqueta has revealed he was days away from signing for Manchester City when he was charged by the Football Association with betting offences.

The Blues targeted the Brazilian midfielder during the summer window of 2023 and an £80millon switch from West Ham United had been lined up.

That transfer was scuppered when Paqueta was charged by the FA and he remained with the Hammers while his case was heard. Paqueta was cleared of spot-fixing charges by an independent commission earlier this year and although he was found to have breached minor charges relating to cooperation with the investigation, he faced no sanction.

Now 28, he is impressing again in midfield for West Ham this season and has been open about his desire to leave the London Stadium for a new challenge, but

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