Barcelona aims to retain Joao Cancelo after the current season, valuing him for his versatility and experience. The player is ready to agree to a short-term deal, contingent on a free transfer once his loan ends.
However, Al Hilal, though not counting on Cancelo, refuses to let him go without compensation. The Saudi club demands at least €15 million or a player exchange. One potential candidate for the swap is Marc Casadó, who shares an agent with Cancelo.
If Cancelo arrives on a free transfer, Barcelona plans to offer approximately a two-year contract. Otherwise, the club is considering other options for the fullback position favored by head coach Hansi Flick and the sporting management.
This situation introduces uncertainty into Barcelona’s near-future plans, with the transfer outcome expected in the upcoming months.