Manchester City is showing interest in acquiring West Ham midfielder Lucas Paqueta, sources have informed ESPN.

While City has not yet presented a formal offer for the Brazilian midfielder, he ranks high on their list of potential targets.

The pursuit of Paqueta is regarded by the club as an independent move, separate from any developments concerning Bernardo Silva's future.

Silva has communicated his desire for a fresh challenge away from the Etihad Stadium.

Despite interest from Barcelona, Paris Saint-Germain, and the Saudi Pro League, sources indicate that City is growing increasingly confident in retaining the 28-year-old.

City has not received a formal bid for Silva and is preparing to extend a new contract offer to the Portuguese international.

Valued at over £70 million ($89.4 million) by West Ham, Paqueta's potential departure is met with reluctance by the club, particularly following the transfer of Declan Rice to Arsenal earlier this summer.

Paqueta contributed to West Ham's victory in the Europa League during his debut season at the London Stadium after his £50 million move from Lyon in 2022.

He has also enjoyed stints at Milan and Flamengo, and he was part of Brazil's squad at the Qatar World Cup.

Manchester City has already strengthened its midfield during this transfer window with the £30 million acquisition of Mateo Kovacic from Chelsea.

Kovacic's arrival coincided with Ilkay Gundogan's transfer to Barcelona on a free deal. Additionally, City has received £30 million from Riyad Mahrez's transfer to Al Ahli.

Furthermore, City is optimistic that Kyle Walker will decline interest from Bayern Munich and instead sign a new contract at the Etihad.

Although Walker's current contract has one year remaining, City is considering a two-year extension.

City is poised to launch their Premier League title defence with a match against Burnley on Friday.