West Ham United ‘have new Paqueta lined up’ as Potter’s coaching staff blown away

West Ham could be in line to find the perfect alternative to Lucas Paqueta as Graham Potter looks ahead to the summer.

The Hammers could be set to part ways with the Brazil international in the coming months as he awaits trial for his alleged spot-fixing charges.

A potential lifetime ban is hanging over the 27-year-old’s head, but it looks likely that the result of his hearing won’t emerge until the summer.

With that uncertainty surrounding the attacking midfielder, Potter could look to find an alternative from the transfer market.

West Ham could find perfect Paqueta replacement

The Irons will be eager to make the upcoming window count after the failure of Tim Steidten and Julen Loptegui at the start of the campaign.

This could start in perfect fashion if the East London outfit were to make a move for Sunderand midfielder Chris Rigg.

The Hammers are lining up a move for the 17-year-old star who is admired by the Potter and his coaching staff as well as the recruitment department at the London Stadium [The Guardian, 25 March].

Tottenham have also tracked the teenage sensation, but the E20 outfit are said to be in a stronger position to land the attacking midfielder.

Rigg could represent an ideal replacement for Paqueta in the summer as the England under-19 international profiles similarly to the Hammers ace.

The Sunderland star shines with progressive carries, successful take-ins, and progressive passes received and outperforms the Brazilian.

Although the former Lyon man has better output in some areas, the duo compare well while Rigg is much younger and is playing for a worse team at a lower level right now.

With the tutelage of Potter and experience in the Premier League, Rigg could turn out to be the perfect addition for the Irons.