Out the blue last week it emerged West Ham star Lucas Paqueta is being investigated by the FA and FIFA over potential betting breaches.
The accusations levelled against Paqueta – which he vehemently denies – could result in a ‘multi-year ban’ or even a ‘jail sentence’ if the Hammers ace is found charged and found guilty.
The key word in this scenario is of course ‘IF’.
Allegations against Paqueta – which centre around three West Ham bookings this year – saw a big money move to Man City collapse.
Accusations against West Ham star Lucas Paqueta could be the straw that breaks the camel’s back as FA accelerate action over betting markets
Paqueta scored and starred for West Ham in the 3-1 win over Chelsea on Sunday to lift the dark cloud hanging over his head.
The Brazilian was due to appear before an FA hearing on Monday. But a masterclass from West Ham co-owner David Sullivan saw that put back three weeks – beyond the close of the summer transfer window.
Judging by past investigations into the kind of allegations being levelled at Paqueta, West Ham and the player should strap themselves in for a lengthy ride.
But it could mark the beginning of the end for such scenarios rearing their ugly heads in the future.
We all know West Ham are massive. But this is so high-profile it seems it could spark major change across the entire football and betting industry.
Because accusations against West Ham star Paqueta could be the straw that breaks the camel’s back as the FA accelerate action over betting markets.