PARIS, France (AFP) – Big-spending Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) might sign a holding midfielder during the winter transfer window as they pursue their dream of winning the Champions League, coach Unai Emery suggested yesterday.

Qatar-backed PSG sent shockwaves through world football by luring Brazilian superstar Neymar from Barcelona for 222 million euros ($261 million) and setting up a record 180-million euro deal for teenage sensation Kylian Mbappe.

But the impressive riches of their forward line are not yet reflected in their midfield.

“Thiago Motta is a sentry for us and when he’s out we don’t really have a replacement,” Emery told a press conference yesterday.

His side are runaway leaders in France’s Ligue 1, but face Cristiano Ronaldo-led Real Madrid in a keenly awaited Champions League last-16 double-header in February.

Motta won the Champions League in 2006 with Barcelona and again in 2010 with Inter Milan and has been at PSG since 2012.

“Having a replacement for him if he’s out would be the key area to strengthen,” said Emery.

To balance the books it is thought PSG are likely to sell over the winter break, with Brazil’s Lucas Moura and French midfielder Hatem Ben Arfa thought to be surplus to Emery’s requirements.

Meanwhile, the Argentines Javier Pastore and Angel Di Maria are also believed to be potential departees.