Real Madrid’s pursuit of Willian Pacho fizzles out as PSG stands firm
Real Madrid’s hunt for a central defender during the 2024/25 campaign led them to scout across Europe, and one standout name that emerged was Willian Pacho of Paris Saint-Germain.
The Ecuadorian centre-back was reportedly a serious option for Los Blancos during their injury-hit period last November.
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08:55 - 16.06.2025
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At the time, Madrid were navigating a defensive injury crisis, with Eder Militão and David Alaba sidelined. The urgency to bolster the backline prompted the club to explore the January transfer market, and Pacho’s performances had caught the eye of the scouting department.
Despite Madrid’s admiration, a move never came close to materialising. Pacho, who signed with PSG from Eintracht Frankfurt and has a contract running until 2029, was effectively untouchable.
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The Parisians had no intention of negotiating with a European rival and quickly shut the door on any possibility of a transfer.
Ultimately, Madrid opted for a more pragmatic move, signing Dean Huijsen from Bournemouth.
The young Dutchman offered a cost-effective and promising solution, aligning better with Madrid’s long-term vision, especially with Militão and Antonio Rüdiger set to return from injury.
What Enrique said
When asked about Madrid’s interest in Pacho following PSG’s 4–0 demolition of Atlético Madrid, PSG boss Luis Enrique responded with a wry smile.
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“It’s normal that they want all our players. But it’s difficult to get players out of Paris Saint-Germain," he said as quoted by Mundo Deportivo.
Still, the interest in Pacho highlights Madrid’s continued eye for elite talent, even if it sometimes means waiting for the right moment.