Cancelo Nears Permanent Return to Barcelona

Portuguese star João Cancelo returned to training with Al Hilal on Friday, following the end of his holiday after participating with his national team in the World Cup, while he awaits the completion of the procedures that will pave the way for his return to Barcelona.

According to Spanish newspaper Mundo Deportivo, the 32-year-old Portuguese full-back is nearing a permanent transfer to the Catalan club, having previously worn the Barcelona jersey on loan from Manchester City during the 2023-2024 season, before embarking on another loan spell with the team in the second half of the 2025-2026 season, arriving from Al Hilal.

João Cancelo is expected to continue his training with the Saudi club in the coming period, until he overcomes the administrative obstacles that are still delaying the completion of the transfer, including some issues related to tax matters.

The most important step for Barcelona was reaching an agreement between the player and Al Hilal, especially since Cancelo's contract with the Saudi club still includes an additional season. With a preliminary understanding regarding his departure in place, the complex administrative procedures now represent the final obstacle to officially closing the deal.

Expectations within Barcelona are leaning towards finalizing the player's return in the coming days, with a deal valued between €8 and €10 million, a cost the club's management considers suitable within their sporting and economic strategy.

Despite some details still needing resolution, Cancelo's evident desire to return to Camp Nou has played a significant role in bringing all parties closer together, bolstering the chances of completing the deal.

If no new developments hinder the agreement, João Cancelo is set to sign a contract with Barcelona for two seasons, keeping him at the Catalan club until June 2028.

Barcelona's sporting management considers the experience of the Portuguese full-back and his ability to play both right and left-back positions as significant factors supporting the transfer, alongside his previous familiarity with the team's environment and dressing room.

Hans Flick is eagerly anticipating Joao Cancelo's arrival to his squad as Barcelona prepares for the new season.