The 27-year-old Brazilian, a standout for West Ham since his 2022 move from Lyon for 35 million pounds, was acquitted of breaching Football Association Rule E5.1.

The charges, filed in May 2024, alleged Paqueta deliberately earned bookings in matches against Leicester City (November 12, 2022), Aston Villa (March 12, 2023), Leeds United (May 21, 2023), and AFC Bournemouth (August 12, 2023).

After a thorough investigation, the Regulatory Commission ruled the charges "not proven," freeing Paqueta from the threat of a severe ban.

"I have maintained my innocence from the start," Paqueta said. "I'm grateful to God, my wife, family, friends, West Ham, and the fans who supported me. I'm eager to play football with a smile again."

West Ham expressed relief at the outcome. "We are pleased Lucas has been cleared," said Vice-Chair Karren Brady. "He faced incredible pressure but performed consistently for us. We stood by him, and now he can move forward, as can the club."

Paqueta's future with the Hammers, however, remains uncertain. With 120 appearances, 18 goals, and 14 assists since joining, he has long been a target for Manchester City. In 2023, City's 70-million-pound bid was rebuffed, with West Ham holding firm for a figure closer to 90 million pounds.

The FA probe stalled further talks, but sources now report City are preparing a new offer, with Paqueta valued at around 30 million pounds following his clearance.

West Ham, meanwhile, are active in the transfer market. According to journalist Fabrizio Romano, the club have tabled an 8-million-euro (6.9-million-pound) bid for Botafogo's towering goalkeeper John Victor, who shone at the 2025 Club World Cup.

The 6ft 5in shot-stopper, under contract until 2028, has also drawn interest from Everton, Galatasaray, and previously Manchester United. "West Ham have submitted a formal bid for John Victor," Romano posted on X. "He's a key target to compete with Alphonse Areola."

New manager Julen Lopetegui, who replaced David Moyes, is reshaping the squad after losing veteran goalkeeper Lukasz Fabianski to a contract expiry. The potential signing of Victor signals West Ham's ambition to bolster their ranks, even as Paqueta's future hangs in the balance.

City's renewed interest in Paqueta, confirmed by recent X posts from transfer insiders, sets the stage for a dramatic transfer window. "City are back in for Paqueta after the charges were dropped," one update noted, hinting at a potential blockbuster move.

West Ham fans, while relieved for their star, brace for a possible farewell to one of their most influential players.

Report: Man City eye signing West Ham's midfielder Lucas Paqueta