PSG Targets Atletico Madrid Trio Ahead of January Window

Paris Saint-Germain is tracking several Atletico Madrid players ahead of the January transfer window, with Pablo Barrios, Alex Baena and Marc Pubill among the targets as the French club seeks midfield and defensive reinforcements. The interest was reported by Sports Mole, Livescore and TheFalse9. PSG manager Luis Enrique has continued evaluating his squad after the summer transfer window, and Sports Mole reported that he praised summer signing Maghnes Akliouche after the win over Le Mans.

Akliouche was described as a positive addition following his goal in the match. "a nice surprise," said Luis Enrique, manager of Paris Saint-Germain.

Pablo Barrios is the most prominent name linked with a move. According to Sports Mole, Livescore and TheFalse9, the 23-year-old Atletico midfielder is being monitored by PSG, Chelsea, Liverpool and Arsenal, with potential transfer figures ranging from €70m to €110m.

Livescore reported that Atletico Madrid could resist approaches because Barrios remains under contract until 2030. The club's release clause for the Spain international is listed at €500 million, although discussions could begin around a lower fee. TheFalse9 reported that PSG view Barrios as a midfielder suited to Luis Enrique's style because of his energy, ability to receive under pressure and contribution in possession. The midfielder has developed into a regular under Diego Simeone after coming through Atletico's academy.

PSG are also monitoring Alex Baena, according to Sports Mole. The Atletico Madrid attacker can operate across several positions, including on the left side, as a striker, central midfielder or playmaker. Baena, a Spain starter at the 2026 World Cup according to Sports Mole, has a contract with Atletico Madrid until June 2030. The report said he has recorded four goals and two assists in nine appearances during the current period.

Marc Pubill is another Atletico player on PSG's radar, with Sports Mole reporting that the defender is considered a possible option for defensive reinforcement. Pubill was also part of Spain's 2026 World Cup winning squad, although he played one minute in the tournament. Sports Mole reported that PSG's focus is currently more on strengthening midfield and defense than adding attacking players.

Pubill, who can play centrally or on the right, has recently seen limited minutes for Atletico Madrid. Liverpool's interest in Barrios is linked to long-term midfield planning, according to Sports Mole. The report said the Spanish midfielder is viewed as an alternative option while Chelsea are also preparing a possible move.

Atletico Madrid continue to rely on Barrios as a key part of Diego Simeone's midfield, while multiple European clubs are monitoring his situation ahead of the upcoming transfer windows.