Negotiations between Barcelona and Saudi Pro League club Al Hilal over Joao Cancelo have reached an advanced stage, with a deal for the Portugal full-back expected to cost about €10m.
Barcelona agreed personal salary terms with Cancelo at the end of last season, according to Sport, but the transfer has been delayed by tax-related details. Those issues are understood to have held up a move that remains a priority for both head coach Hansi Flick and sporting director Deco.
Cancelo spent six months on loan at Barcelona and impressed during his time at Camp Nou. His performances have encouraged the Catalan club to pursue a permanent return, with Barcelona viewing the proposed transfer as an attractive opportunity both on the pitch and financially.
The 31-year-old is currently completing individual training with permission from Al Hilal. The Saudi club does not include Cancelo in its plans for the new season and has made him available for transfer.
Al Hilal have already strengthened at full-back by signing Saudi Arabia international Mohammed Al Mahzari for approximately €8m. Cancelo’s situation has therefore become increasingly separate from the club’s plans, although Al Hilal are keen to recover part of the sum they paid to sign him from Manchester City.
That financial consideration is expected to lead to a transfer fee of about €10m if an agreement with Barcelona is finalised.
Barcelona believe Cancelo can provide immediate sporting value after he established himself as a regular at left-back during his loan spell. He produced a series of strong displays for the club and was among their most effective creators during the second half of last season.
Flick has also valued Cancelo’s versatility, with the Portuguese capable of operating in more than one position. His attacking quality was another factor in the coach’s assessment, particularly because of the number of chances and goals he helped create after joining Barcelona.
The remaining tax details are the main obstacle to completing the move, rather than an unresolved agreement over the player’s salary. Barcelona and Al Hilal are continuing discussions as they attempt to settle the final elements of the transfer.
For Barcelona, bringing Cancelo back would offer a player already familiar with the club, its squad and its system. For Al Hilal, a sale would allow the club to move on from a player who is not part of its next project while recouping some of its original investment.
The negotiations are therefore at an advanced stage, with the expected €10m fee forming the basis of a possible agreement between the two clubs.
