"Lucas Paquetá has said he ignored calls from Premier League sides Tottenham Hotspur and Chelsea before joining Flamengo back in his native Brazil. Paquetá signed for Flamengo on Thursday for £35.8 million ($49.4m), making him the most expensive player ever signed by a Brazilian club. The 28-year-old, who had 18 months remaining on his contract at West Ham United, told Flamengo TV that two of his former side's London rivals were interested -- but his heart was set on Flamengo."
""Tottenham called, Chelsea called, and the funny thing is that Tata (his agent) called all excited and said: 'Chelsea's calling, they're gonna make an offer.' "I replied: 'Okay, but what about Flamengo?' He said: 'Are you serious?' "I said: 'Yeah, I don't want to know about that. I want to hear about Flamengo,' and that's how it all turned out.""
Lucas Paquetá completed a move to Flamengo for £35.8 million ($49.4m), becoming the most expensive signing in Brazilian club history. The 28-year-old left West Ham United with 18 months remaining on his contract. Tottenham Hotspur and Chelsea showed interest, but Paquetá focused on Flamengo and instructed his agent to prioritize that option. West Ham wanted him to stay until the end of the season to help in the relegation battle. Paquetá requested an early return to Brazil ahead of the World Cup, and Flamengo secured the transfer during the January window.
Read at ESPN.com
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