David Moyes admits fear Lucas Paqueta was out of West Ham’s reach as more signings not ruled out

David Moyes has spoken of his joy at landing Lucas Paqueta
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David Moyes has admitted he did not think West Ham would be able to pull off the signing of Lucas Paqueta, having been dazzled by the Brazilian’s performance for Lyon in last season’s Europa League quarter-final.

Paqueta was unveiled as Moyes’ eighth signing of the summer on Monday, arriving in a club-record deal that could be worth £51.2million including add-ons.

The 25-year-old was part of the Lyon side beaten 4-1 on aggregate by Moyes’ men last term but his arrival at the London Stadium represents a significant statement of intent.

“I’m really pleased,” Moyes said. “We’ve been watching him for a long time and he really came to our attention when he played against us for Lyon and he was the standout player.

“We looked a lot deeper and we didn’t think he would be available, so a big thank you to the board for making it happen.

“He can play two or three positions and it all made sense if we could get him – and it’s never easy to get big players.”

The arrival of Paqueta takes the Irons’ summer spending north of £170m, while Issa Diop’s move to Fulham is the only outgoing to have generated significant income.

With little more than 48 hours until the transfer window closes, Moyes refused to rule out further business but hinted that departures could be just as likely as any further additions.

“I wouldn’t completely say no, but in the same breath it could be yes because there are one or two things we need to look at,” Moyes added, when asked whether he could do more business.

“There might be some people coming in and there might be some people going out.”

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