Romano: Cancelo Prioritizes Barcelona Return Amid Inter Interest
According to renowned transfer journalist Fabrizio Romano, João Cancelo has identified a return to FC Barcelona as his absolute priority for the January 2026 window. While several European clubs are circling the Al Hilal defender, Cancelo’s agent, Jorge Mendes, remains in constant communication with Barcelona President Joan Laporta. Despite the interest, the deal is currently at a critical "wait-and-see" stage as the Catalan club evaluates its financial and tactical landscape.
Barcelona’s hesitation stems from the complex financial framework required to facilitate the move. Cancelo currently earns a substantial €15 million annual salary in the Saudi Pro League. For a loan deal to be viable, Barcelona would likely need Al Hilal to cover at least 50% of his wages for the remainder of the season. Additionally, the club is meticulously reviewing its Financial Fair Play (FFP) margins to ensure that registering Cancelo—even on a temporary basis—does not jeopardize their ability to make future moves or register existing players like Andreas Christensen.
Tactically, the addition of Cancelo is seen as a high-reward opportunity for manager Hansi Flick. His versatility would allow Jules Koundé to move more permanently into a central defensive role, optimizing the backline’s structure. However, Inter Milan remains a serious threat; the Italian giants have reportedly already reached a principle agreement with Al Hilal for a six-month loan. Despite Inter’s readiness to close the deal immediately, Cancelo is holding out for a final decision from the Camp Nou, hoping to reunite with his former teammates in Spain.
The Most Popular
-
FC Porto Extend Farioli’s Contract Until 2028, Add Felipe Sánchez to Coaching Staff -
AC Milan Launches Bid for Marco Verratti Amid Boca Juniors Competition -
El Clasico for the Crown: Persib vs Persija Showdown -
Old Trafford Test: Man United vs Brighton in FA Cup Clash -
Newcastle vs Man City: High-Stakes EFL Cup Semi Set for Stalemate -
John Herdman, Patrick Kluivert, or Shin Tae-yong: Who Truly Shines as Indonesia’s National Team Coach?
Telegram
Facebook
X