Back
According to a report by Barca Universal on Monday, November 2, 2026, Barcelona are no longer considering a move for Paris Saint-Germain defender Willian Pacho, despite recent transfer speculation connecting the Ecuadorian with a switch to Camp Nou.
According to transfer expert Matteo Moretto, the 25-year-old is not a realistic option for the Spanish champions, as PSG are determined to retain his services.
Barcelona are actively searching for defensive reinforcements ahead of the January transfer window, with the club's management prioritising the signing of a left-footed central defender capable of strengthening their backline immediately.
Several established names have attracted the attention of the Blaugrana. Manchester City's Josko Gvardiol, Manchester United's Lisandro Martinez and Inter Milan defender Alessandro Bastoni are all believed to be on the club's transfer shortlist.
Despite Pacho's impressive qualities, Barcelona face significant obstacles in their pursuit of the defender. PSG consider him an essential part of their future plans and are not prepared to negotiate his departure.
Luis Enrique is particularly impressed with the centre-back and does not want to lose him. Pacho, meanwhile, is happy with his situation in Paris and is focused on helping the French giants achieve further success.
His recent decision to sign a contract extension until 2031 has further strengthened PSG's position and made Barcelona's chances of signing him extremely slim.
With Pacho effectively unavailable, Barcelona are expected to concentrate on other defensive targets. Martinez is reportedly viewed as the most accessible option because his Manchester United contract is due to expire next summer.
The situation could encourage United to consider selling the Argentine during the January transfer window to avoid the possibility of losing him without receiving a transfer fee when his contract expires.
Barcelona also maintain a strong interest in Bastoni, who is reportedly open to the idea of moving to the Spanish club. However, Inter Milan are believed to value the Italian defender at around €70 million.
That asking price could complicate negotiations, particularly because Barcelona are operating under financial restrictions and are unlikely to spend such a substantial amount without carefully considering their options.
Consequently, the Catalan club may have to focus on more affordable alternatives as they attempt to strengthen their defence ahead of the second half of the season.