Arsenal remain attentive to the situation of Willian Pacho, with the PSG defender firmly on the radar of leading Premier League recruitment departments. According to Caught Offside, Arsenal and Manchester City are both keeping a close eye on the Ecuador international, whose profile has risen sharply since his move from Eintracht Frankfurt in 2024.
Pacho, 24, has developed into one of Europe’s standout left-footed centre-backs. His athleticism, authority in duels and comfort in possession explain why elite clubs value him so highly. As outlined in the report, his “combination of pace, physical strength and composure in possession” makes him an especially appealing option for sides that want to squeeze the pitch and build cleanly from deep.
Arsenal scouting reports on Willian Pacho
The latest information suggests Arsenal and City have “compiled detailed scouting reports on Pacho” and “recently watched him during PSG’s 2-2 draw with Lille”. That level of live observation points to genuine interest, even if it does not yet indicate an active attempt to strike a deal. Liverpool and Real Madrid are also said to have monitored the defender previously, which only underlines the calibre of player Arsenal are assessing.
Photo: IMAGO
From Arsenal’s perspective, Pacho appears to fit a familiar defensive brief, a mobile, technically secure left-sided centre-back capable of operating in an aggressive structure. For City, the attraction is similarly clear, with the report noting they feel “his passing and recovery speed would suit Enzo Maresca’s possession-based system.”
PSG contract leaves January move unlikely
The major shift is contractual. Reuters confirmed Pacho has signed a new PSG deal until 2031, and that significantly alters the landscape. As the report states, “The new contract changes everything.” PSG now hold a far stronger position, particularly with Pacho starting every Ligue 1 match so far and completing the full 90 minutes in each.