According to El Nacional, Hansi Flick believes Barcelona need another defender after João Cancelo and is urging the board to bid for Aston Villa centre-back Pau Torres. A loan with an option for a permanent transfer valued at €30 million (£26 million, $35 million) could be proposed.

Pau Torres has been linked with a return to Spain, with Barcelona considering him as a solution to their defensive problems. Keith Wyness has revealed that Torres would be open to joining Barcelona in 2026. It is stated that the attraction of going to Barcelona for a Spanish player is very strong and that Torres and his agent will be very tempted if that’s the case. Barcelona's ability to structure a deal that can be paid and approved is mentioned as a challenge. Aston Villa are unlikely to sell, but it is suggested that the player could influence the decision.

According to Football Insider, Aston Villa centre-back Pau Torres is anticipated to be influenced by Barcelona's interest, even with Unai Emery's desire to keep the former Villarreal defender.

Pau Torres of Aston Villa is a secondary option for FC Barcelona for the central defender position. This option does not have sufficient support from the club's management.