News reports reported the latest developments about the future of Portuguese defender Joao Cancelo, who is currently playing with Barcelona on loan from Al Hilal Saudi Arabia until the end of the season.
The Catalan club is facing difficulty in keeping the player permanently, due to Al Hilal’s insistence on obtaining a large financial compensation or concluding a mutual deal to release him, especially since his contract with “Al-Zaeem” is still valid for another season.
According to what was published by the “Fanaticos” website, “Cancelo” decided to leave the Saudi club, after rejecting a tempting offer to stay worth 15 million euros, preferring to continue with Barcelona, especially after the distinguished performance he presented under the leadership of German coach “Hansi Flick.”
Reports also indicated that the 31-year-old player, through his agent, Jorge Mendes, has already begun taking legal and administrative measures to end his relationship with Al Hilal. Since his return to the Spanish League, he has regained his well-known level, and has become a key player in the “Flick” squad, who praised his commitment.
In a move aimed at facilitating his final transfer, Cancelo expressed his willingness to reduce his annual salary, which encouraged Barcelona’s management to enter into official negotiations. While Al Hilal is asking for about 15 million euros to complete the deal, the Spanish club is seeking to reduce this amount or reach an agreement satisfactory to both parties, knowing that Al Hilal had signed the player from Manchester City in the summer of 2024 for 25 million euros.
It is noteworthy that “Cancelo” played 45 matches with Al Hilal, during which he scored 3 goals and assisted 14 other goals. He is also receiving the attention of a number of Italian clubs, led by “Inter Milan” and “Juventus.”
