- Barcelona are closing in on João Cancelo, who could leave Al Hilal as a free agent and return to Camp Nou after his previous loan spell.
Barcelona close in on João Cancelo free transfer
Al Hilal is nearing the contract termination with Joao Cancelo that could pave his move to Barcelona this summer, according to Saudi-based journalist Hamad Al-Swailhi. The Portuguese fullback's second half of last season at Barcelona was on a loan deal with a buy option around €15 million after getting omitted from the plans of Al Hilal.
Barcelona previously rejected €15m buy option
Cancelo enjoyed a productive loan spell with Barcelona, contributing four goals and assists across 20 La Liga and Champions League appearances. Barcelona's reluctance to trigger the €15m option now looks significant, as the club could potentially obtain the same player without paying a transfer fee if Al Hilal terminates his contract. In the opening match of the Saudi Pro League, Al Hilal manager Inzaghi left Cancelo out of the squad, as his future is uncertain.
According to Fabrizio Romano, Barcelona are increasingly confident of signing Cancelo as a free agent once his contract termination is completed and proceeding with his signing by next week, according to Fabrizio Romano.
Key Takeaways: A low-cost solution for Barcelona
Cancelo would give Barcelona more flexibility in defense, as he can operate on either side while still offering plenty going forward. His overlapping runs, ability to carry the ball, and quality of delivery can add another attacking outlet from the full-back. His experience in possession-based football also makes him a natural fit for Flick's approach, while his versatility gives the manager another option when changing the shape during games.
His ability to take on defenders and initiate counterattacks makes him a favorite option for Flick. In last loanspell he became a regular starter for the team following inconsistent performances from other fullbacks, and he convinced the board to make a move for a permanent deal
A return to Barcelona would give Cancelo another chance to establish himself as an important part of Flick's plans. He could provide valuable depth and experience without requiring a major transfer fee