West Ham United midfielder Lucas Paquetá is reportedly facing two additional charges from the English FA in his betting case, which could result in a lifetime ban.
Paqueta has been under the watchful eyes of the FA due to a series of betting breaches since the start of the 2023-24 season after irregularities found in some of his suspicious bookings in West Ham United matches during the previous season.
The Association took possession of Paqueta’s phone for two months last year while investigators looked into his messages, calls, and banking history, during which time he bought a new mobile.
They eventually gave it back, but recalled it down the line as the investigators wanted to check extra details. However, the 27-year-old has informed the investigators he no longer has the phone in his possession. He has lost it.
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FA Calls for Lifetime Ban for Lucas Paqueta
As a result the FA are accusing him of obstructing the investigation with two aggravated breaches for non-cooperation and is calling for a lifetime ban as a penalty for his betting breaches.
He was a subject of interest for Manchester City in the summer of 2023 but the Cityzens passed the chance after investigation was opened into his betting breaches. They went on to sign Matheus Nunes from Wolves.
Paqueta continues to play while investigation is ongoing. Reports of him seeking a move away from Europe emerged in the summer as a potential punishment could prevent him from playing in the continent. However, it was eventually agreed that he continues at West Ham.