Lucas Paqueta ‘can play for West Ham for almost ALL of next season’ despite spot-fixing charges – with complex case set to drag on for months

Lucas Paqueta is likely to play for West Ham for most of next season despite spot-fixing allegations, according to a report.

The Brazilian playmaker, who is accused of deliberately collecting yellow cards in four Premier League games against Leicester, Aston Villa, Leeds and Bournemouth, could face a 10-year ban if the Football Association finds him guilty.

Paqueta, 26, has been allowed to continue playing for West Ham until the end of the disciplinary process. He denies any wrongdoing in relation to the spot-fixing charges.

According to The timesAccording to sources with knowledge of the process, Paqueta’s complicated case could last until almost the end of next season, and perhaps even longer.

West Ham, who are preparing for their first season under new manager Julen Lopetegui, were reportedly approached by Brazilian side Flamengo over a potential loan move for Paqueta – but are now confident the midfielder will be available for the majority of next season.

The Brazil star, who returns to West Ham after representing his country at the Copa America, is accused of deliberately collecting yellow cards in four separate matches

Paqueta’s defense attorneys expect it will take months to secure all relevant information

Now that they have been granted an extension to respond to the FA’s charges, Paqueta’s defence lawyers believe it will take months to secure all the relevant information in the complex case, including gathering key documents and witness statements. The case also spans three countries: England, Brazil and Spain.

The Brazilian’s representatives were initially given until June 3 to respond to the FA, two weeks after Paqueta was charged.

In August 2023, Mail Sport exclusively broke the story of Paqueta’s betting investigation, which led to the rejection of his proposed £85million transfer to Premier League champions Manchester City.

English Football Association guidelines state that players found guilty of spot-fixing could face a ban of between six months and life in prison.

Paqueta denied any wrongdoing, saying in a statement on social media in May: ‘I am extremely surprised and angry that the FA have decided to charge me.

Paqueta came under scrutiny in particular for four bookings, the first of which is listed above

A tackle on Aston Villa midfielder John McGinn was also one that raised alarm bells

Leeds’ Crysencio Summerville was taken down by Paqueta, who was shown a yellow card for the tackle

Paqueta was investigated after he was shown a yellow card against Bournemouth

Paqueta has expressed his surprise at the allegations and continues to deny any wrongdoing.

‘For nine months I cooperated with every step of their investigation and provided all the information I could.

“I completely deny the allegations and will fight with every breath to clear my name.”