FC Barcelona: João Cancelo begins to see the light at the end of the tunnel

The Portuguese defender is set to leave Al-Hilal for around 8 million euros and sign a two-year deal

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FC Barcelona: João Cancelo begins to see the light at the end of the tunnel

João Cancelo is edging closer to a third stint at Barça, this time on a permanent basis, after receiving the green light from Al-Hilal to make the move.

João Cancelo's return to FC Barcelona is entering its final stretch. The Portuguese full-back had already reached a contract agreement with the Catalan management, but negotiations with Al-Hilal had been holding up the deal.

According to AS, the transfer fee should be around eight million euros, resulting in a two-year contract. This outcome aligns with the player's wishes, as João Cancelo had already been pushing to remain at FC Barcelona, even if it meant lowering his salary.

A boycott now in perspective

After his loan spell ended, Cancelo was theoretically supposed to return to Al-Hilal and take part in the club's summer preparations in Austria. His absence was initially interpreted as a boycott aimed at forcing a move to Barcelona.

However, the situation has since evolved. The defender continues to train individually in Portugal, but now reportedly has Al-Hilal's permission. It would therefore no longer be accurate to describe his absence as an active boycott. The Saudi club has opened the door to his departure, and all parties are now ironing out the final details.

Cancelo is coming off a second successful spell in Catalonia. Arriving on loan last January, he played a key role in Barça's La Liga triumph. Hansi Flick appreciates his technical quality and his ability to operate on both flanks.

A trophy cabinet built across Europe

Trained at Barreirense and then Benfica, Cancelo began his professional career with Benfica B before joining the first team. He then wore the colors of Valencia, Inter Milan, Juventus, Manchester City, Bayern Munich, FC Barcelona, and Al-Hilal.

His trophy haul includes a league title and a League Cup in Portugal with Benfica, a Serie A and an Italian Supercup with Juventus, as well as three Premier Leagues, two League Cups, an FA Cup, and a Champions League title with Manchester City.

He also won the Bundesliga with Bayern Munich in 2023 and the Spanish championship with Barcelona in 2026. With Portugal, Cancelo has two Nations League titles, secured in 2019 and 2025.