ASTON VILLA are closing in on a deal to sign West Ham star Lucas Paqueta, according to reports.
The Brazilian, 28, is said to be keen on a move to Villa Park.
Unai Emery’s side are likely to land Paqueta on an initial loan deal.
According to transfer reporter Fabrizio Romano, the loan will include an obligation to buy.
The total package, including an initial loan fee as well as future transfer sum, will total around £47million.
Paqueta is said to have agreed to the move and is eager to get it done in the next 48 hours.
The midfielder had been close to a big-money switch to Manchester City two years ago, prior to an investigation into spot fixing allegations.
He was cleared of all charges earlier in the summer and is appreciative of the support he has received throughout from the Hammers.
But despite this, Paqueta remains keen on a move.
The former Lyon and AC Milan star has played every minute in all competitions for West Ham so far this season.
Paqueta has travelled to Nottingham with his team-mates ahead of his side’s clash with Forest this afternoon.
But club bosses will have to decide whether to field their No10 at the City Ground amid transfer speculation.
Paqueta’s compatriot Emerson Palmieri is set to depart for Marseille ahead of tomorrow’s transfer deadline.
While the French side are also interested in centre-back Nayef Aguerd.
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