In a completely unexpected turn, the name of Joao Cancelo has resurfaced as a possible reinforcement for FC Barcelona. The Portuguese international is performing very well with Al-Hilal, tallying 2 goals and 11 assists in 36 matches. He is 31 years old, under contract until 2027, and although his salary is excessively high in Saudi Arabia, the Portuguese would be willing to earn much less to return to Camp Nou.
Joao Cancelo: Available for €15M
The latest reports have indicated that Cancelo could leave Saudi Arabia for a fee close to €15 million. In Europe, he is still highly desired by some teams, and this possibility has been put on Barça's table.
In 2024, after spending a season on loan at Barça, there was a chance to sign him, but it was declined. He was ultimately transferred by Manchester City for €25 million. Now, a year later, he intends to return to a top European team, giving priority to a permanent return to FC Barcelona.
Barça decides
Madrid-Barcelona has learned that the decision regarding Cancelo's future has already been made. Despite the rumors, Barça has decided that this is not a signing it should make this summer. He is a highly regarded full-back, familiar with the club and able to cover both flanks, but it is considered that his time has passed.
This could change if Al-Hilal lowers its financial demands. For €15 million, the signing is not being considered, but at a lower price, it would not be ruled out.
Certainly, these rumors about a possible return of João Cancelo are motivated by one figure: Jorge Mendes. The all-powerful agent, well connected with Laporta, has put his name on Barça's table. It is a personal request from the footballer himself, who dreams of returning.
Versatility on the flanks
At 31 years old, João Cancelo remains one of the most complete and versatile full-backs on the planet. With outstanding technical ability, vision, and a very marked offensive style, he has established himself as a key player wherever he has gone. Whether on the right or the left, Cancelo provides depth, creativity, and an extra boost in ball progression that very few defenders can offer.
Trained at Benfica and seasoned in leagues such as Serie A, Premier League, and LaLiga, the Portuguese international has left his mark at clubs like Juventus, Manchester City, Bayern, and Barcelona. His versatility is one of his greatest assets: he can adapt to different tactical systems and offer solutions both in defense and attack.
In Europe, he is a highly regarded footballer. His ability to break lines, thread passes, and create numerical superiority on the flanks makes him a highly sought-after profile in the market. Although he is no longer a young prospect, Cancelo continues to show every season that he is among the best in his position.
With experience, talent, and a competitive character, João Cancelo is, without a doubt, still an elite full-back in his prime. Although, as of today, he doesn't seem to truly interest Barcelona. At least not for those €15 million...