Barcelona are on the verge of securing their third major signing of the summer, after having roped in Karim Adeyemi and Anthony Gordon, as they prepare to welcome Joao Cancelo back to the club. The Portuguese international, who spent the latter half of last season on loan at the Catalan side, is now set to join on a permanent basis. Transfer expert Fabrizio Romano has confirmed the deal, noting that a breakthrough was achieved regarding the termination of Cancelo’s contract with Al Hilal.
The 32-year-old defender had one year remaining on his deal with the Saudi Arabian club, but he has successfully negotiated his release to become a free agent. This development serves as a significant boost for Barcelona, as the club had previously expected to pay a transfer fee to secure his services. With the final obstacle removed, Cancelo is authorized to travel early next week to finalize the move, having already agreed to personal terms with the club back in June.
Cancelo’s return is viewed as a major success for the team, particularly after his impressive performances under manager Hansi Flick during his previous loan spell. Flick reportedly pushed for the defender's return, valuing his versatility across both flanks. A self-proclaimed Barcelona fan, Cancelo has expressed his desire to join the club permanently through various public statements and social media activity. Having previously spent time at the club on loan, the defender is now poised to make his stay permanent.
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The 32-year-old impressed under Hansi Flick during his loan spell, particularly on the left flank, doing enough to convince the German to push for his continued presence.
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