FC Barcelona secured only one senior signing during the January transfer window, bringing Joao Cancelo on loan from Al Hilal until the end of the season.
The 31-year-old full-back has not played regularly enough in his second loan spell with the Blaugrana but showed his value with an impressive performance against Levante last weekend.
According to SPORT, there is confidence within Barcelona that Cancelo will continue to improve, and a pre-established plan exists to secure his permanent signing in the summer transfer window.
After a hesitant start, the Portuguese has found his rhythm and showcased his attacking potential with an assist on Sunday.
It is claimed that Barça agreed with Cancelo and his representatives that he would remain beyond this season if he delivers good performances and if certain financial conditions are met, which the player himself must facilitate.
As part of the ongoing loan arrangement, Al Hilal agreed to cover a significant portion of his wages, and Cancelo gave up part of his salary.
No purchase option was included in the deal, but Barcelona assured Cancelo they would try to sign him permanently in the summer, provided he terminates his contract with Al Hilal and arrives as a free agent.
He would only sign if he arrives on a free transfer and agrees to a salary aligned with the club’s financial framework.
Barcelona intends to reinforce the full-back position next season, and Cancelo fits the profile. The club believes he is regaining fitness after a long period without regular football in Saudi Arabia and could play an important role in the decisive phase of the campaign.
Everything will depend first on his performances and then on him securing his release at no cost by giving up the final year of his contract with Al Hilal.
