Barcelona is in active negotiations with Saudi club Al Hilal regarding the return of Joao Cancelo. Until the permanent transfer is finalized, the player is expected to join Al Hilal’s preseason training on July 29, but progress is being made to unlock the situation.
Cancelo, a key defender for Barcelona last season, is known for his pace and versatility. Coach Hansi Flick wishes to have the Portuguese player on the upcoming England tour squad but recognizes that the deal is a priority that requires time and thorough talks.
Al Hilal, coached by Simone Inzaghi, is currently holding their training camp in Austria. Reports indicate that Al Hilal is willing to listen to offers for Cancelo and has given the green light from their new sporting director Richard Hughes, particularly since Cancelo himself has communicated his wish to return to Spotify Camp Nou.
Meanwhile, Al Hilal has already secured a replacement at right-back; local media report that the club is close to signing Mohammed Mahzari from Al Taawoun. Joao Cancelo’s agent, Jorge Mendes, is working to obtain an appropriate offer from Barcelona, mindful that Cancelo still has one year remaining on his contract with Al Hilal.
