The investigation into Lucas Paqueta’s potential breach of betting rules is set to reach a verdict soon.

Just as Manchester City were set to make a bid for West Ham’s Lucas Paqueta back in August, the Brazilian was linked with suspicious betting patterns surrounding multiple yellow cards. This prompted the FA to start a full investigation into the allegations.

Interestingly, the suspicions were flagged by West Ham’s sponsor Betway. It is believed that there were multiple bets made back in Brazil that were extremely concerning to bookmakers.

Since then, there has been little said regarding the matter and Paqueta has just gone about his usual business by being one of the Hammers most important players this season. The only real update is that the midfielder handed his phone over to the FA.

According to Football Insider, the investigation is now drawing to a close and a decision is to be made. It is important to note that allegations like this are extremely difficult to prove unless there is something like a text or email that puts it in black and white. However, if he is found guilty, the consequences could be extremely serious.

Either way, the fact that a verdict is being reached is not good news for West Ham. A guilty verdict means he is likely to be suspended at the very least, while an innocent one opens the door for City to come back in for him. The club would have been hoping this dragged on for as long as possible, but it had to come to an end sooner or later.