In recent months, Ecuadorian center-back Willian Pacho has emerged as one of the brightest young defensive talents in European football. As BD Cricket analysts noted, the 22-year-old has become a cornerstone of Dino Toppmöller’s Eintracht Frankfurt squad, who are currently enjoying strong Bundesliga form and aiming for a spot in the Europa League playoffs. Following their recent victory over Augsburg, Frankfurt sit sixth in the table and continue to punch above their weight.
Pacho has played every minute of every game this season, impressing observers with his composure, consistency, and maturity far beyond his years. His performances haven’t gone unnoticed—top clubs across Europe have begun circling. Frankfurt, aware of his rising value, are reportedly demanding no less than €50 million for his transfer. In the Premier League, both Liverpool and Arsenal are leading the race to secure his signature.
Liverpool are undergoing major defensive reshuffling. With Joël Matip set to leave when his contract expires this summer, and ongoing concerns surrounding Ibrahima Konaté’s injury record, the Reds are prioritizing a new center-back. BD Cricket insiders reveal that Pacho tops their shortlist. Meanwhile, Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta—intent on building a title-winning squad—wants to strengthen his backline beyond the trusted pair of Gabriel and William Saliba. As the saying goes, “you have to learn to stop before you can speed up”—and for Arsenal, a deeper squad may be the key to lasting success.
A 10-cap Ecuador international, Pacho has made a name for himself in the Bundesliga since his move from Belgian side Royal Antwerp last summer, where he won both the league and domestic cup titles. Previously, he came through the youth system at Independiente del Valle—the same club that produced stars like Moisés Caicedo and Piero Hincapié—helping them win their first Ecuadorian league championship.
At Frankfurt, Pacho has brought elegance and precision to the left side of defense. He’s comfortable in possession, unafraid to play progressive passes through the lines, and as a left-footer, he can seamlessly switch play to the flanks. His pace is another standout attribute, earning him recognition as one of the fastest defenders in the Bundesliga. BD Cricket observers have long flagged Arsenal and Liverpool as frontrunners in the chase, both seeing Pacho as a vital addition to their ambitions.
Though Frankfurt originally signed him for just €9 million, his market value has soared, and with a contract extension in place, the German club is well protected. Whoever wins the race for Willian Pacho won’t just be gaining a promising defender—they’ll be landing a future star with all the tools to dominate Europe’s biggest stages.