Barcelona & PSG Set To Battle For Crystal Palace Defender Daniel Muñoz Amid Hakimi Injury Blow

Two European giants — Barcelona and Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) — are gearing up for an unexpected transfer battle over Crystal Palace’s Daniel Muñoz, as both clubs seek to strengthen their right flank ahead of the January window.

PSG’s Crisis: Hakimi Sidelined After Injury Against Bayern

PSG’s defensive stability has taken a major hit after star full-back Achraf Hakimi suffered a serious ankle injury in their Champions League clash with Bayern Munich.

The Moroccan international was forced off just before half-time following a reckless challenge from Luis Díaz, which resulted in a red card after a VAR review.

Subsequent scans revealed a severe left ankle sprain involving partial ligament damage. Although surgery is not required, Hakimi will be sidelined for six to eight weeks, ruling him out of several key fixtures and casting doubt on his participation in the Africa Cup of Nations, set to begin on December 21 in Morocco.

Morocco head coach Walid Regragui expressed his concern, saying:

“Achraf Hakimi is irreplaceable. He was a contender for the Ballon d’Or. For us Moroccans, he is the best player in the world.”

PSG Eye Muñoz As Ideal Replacement

With Hakimi out, PSG have turned their attention to Daniel Muñoz, Crystal Palace’s energetic Colombian full-back.

According to reports from Fichajes, the French champions view the 28-year-old as the perfect short-term cover and long-term competitor for Hakimi. Muñoz has been a consistent performer for Oliver Glasner’s side, known for his stamina, defensive awareness, and ability to contribute in attack.

Barcelona Enter The Race

Meanwhile, Barcelona have reportedly joined the chase. Spanish outlet Mundo Deportivo claims that the Catalan giants have been tracking Muñoz for several months and believe a deal worth around €30 million (£26m/$34m) could tempt Palace into negotiations.

With Xavi Hernández seeking depth and experience at right-back, Muñoz is seen as a realistic target within Barcelona’s restricted financial framework.

However, Crystal Palace, who recently won the FA Cup, are unlikely to sell easily. Muñoz’s contract runs until 2028, and the club considers him an integral part of their defensive setup.

Transfer Tug-Of-War Looms

Both PSG and Barcelona are expected to make formal inquiries before the January transfer window opens.

For PSG, it’s about urgency — replacing an injured star to maintain their Champions League ambitions.
For Barcelona, it’s about strategy — reinforcing a key position with a player who fits their modern full-back profile.

With Muñoz’s value rising and his Premier League stock strong, Crystal Palace hold all the cards in what could become one of the most intriguing transfer sagas of early 2025.