Kosner Baskonia and Barça are close to a direct exchange involving Willy Hernangómez, Xevi Pujol, and Paolo Galbiati. The deal, with no financial compensation, could reshape both teams for the next season.
Negotiations between Kosner Baskonia and Barça have reached an advanced stage, with both clubs preparing for a significant exchange that could alter their line-ups and coaching staff ahead of the new season. The proposed deal would see Willy Hernangómez, whose contract with Barça has just ended, move to Baskonia, while Xevi Pujol and coach Paolo Galbiati are expected to join Barça. Notably, the agreement is structured as a direct swap, with no financial compensation involved, reflecting the mutual interests of both organizations.
Barça's pursuit of Xevi Pujol became public after the player expressed his intention to leave for Barcelona, a move confirmed by Kosner Baskonia's sporting director Félix Fernández. Fernández emphasized that Baskonia would act to protect its own interests, especially as Pujol's departure became increasingly likely. At the same time, Paolo Galbiati, who was initially set to continue as Baskonia's head coach, is now on track to take over coaching duties at Barça. Despite having a contract for another season, Galbiati's exit appears imminent, though Baskonia's management has avoided providing explicit details about the transition.
Willy Hernangómez, after three underwhelming seasons at Barça, is at the center of the swap. Although his contract has expired, Barça retains his rights, making a player exchange the most viable solution for both sides. The absence of a transfer fee is seen as a practical arrangement, allowing both clubs to address their immediate needs without additional financial strain. According to those involved in the talks, the deal is expected to be finalized soon, with Hernangómez heading to Vitoria and both Pujol and Galbiati moving to Barcelona.
This type of direct exchange is rare in Spanish basketball, especially involving both players and coaching staff. The move comes at a time when both teams are seeking to rebuild after challenging seasons. For context, high-profile changes in Spanish sports have often drawn public attention, as seen when Paula Badosa's comments on her split with Stefanos Tsitsipas sparked widespread discussion. In the current case, the focus remains on the practical implications for both clubs as they prepare for the upcoming campaign.
In Spanish basketball, player rights often remain with clubs even after contracts expire, which can complicate transfers and negotiations. Both Kosner Baskonia and Barça are established names in the Liga Endesa, with strong fan bases and a history of competing at the highest level. The outcome of this swap could influence not only team dynamics but also the broader competitive landscape in the league for the 2026 season.
