Manchester City and Arsenal Scout PSG Defender Willian Pacho

Manchester City and Arsenal have dispatched scouts to monitor Willian Pacho, a key figure in Paris Saint-Germain’s defence, at the start of the 2026/27 season. A January move, though, appears off the table.

The summer transfer window has closed across Europe’s major leagues, and several top clubs are already mapping out the next phase of business with January 2027 in mind. In that context, Rayan Cherki is being tracked by both PSG and Real Madrid, while the Citizens remain active and have turned their attention toward the reigning back-to-back European champions.

Manchester City and Arsenal Watched Pacho Against Lille

According to Caught Offside, both Premier League clubs have compiled detailed scouting reports on the Ecuadorian centre-back and travelled to observe him during PSG’s 2-2 draw with Lille in late August. Both sides are monitoring the situation as they weigh up options to reinforce their respective defensive units.

The 24-year-old, formerly of Eintracht Frankfurt, has cemented himself as an undisputed starter on the left side of Luis Enrique’s defence. He played a key role in PSG’s consecutive Champions League triumphs and has the profile to command interest from any elite club.

Manchester City see Pacho as an ideal fit for Enzo Maresca’s defensive system, while Arsenal would target him as a top-tier option for Mikel Arteta. Liverpool and Real Madrid have also tracked the Ecuador international in the past.

A Willian Pacho Departure from PSG Looks Unlikely

PSG have already moved to secure Pacho’s long-term future, extending his contract until 2031, per Reuters. That places Paris in an extremely strong negotiating position, and the centre-back has little incentive to leave a side that has dominated European football over the past two seasons.

A transfer remains difficult to envisage at this stage. January, in particular, looks unrealistic. Follow TipsGG for ongoing coverage as this situation develops through the winter window and beyond.