Barcelona Considering Al-Hilal’s João Cancelo As Defensive Reinforcement In January

‎João Cancelo, the Portuguese right-back renowned for his attacking flair and versatility, could be on the verge of a high-profile return to European football. After a brief but impactful loan spell at FC Barcelona during the 2023/24 season, Cancelo now appears ready to depart Al-Hilal, with Barcelona reportedly in contact to explore a possible move.

‎A Memorable Spell at Barcelona

‎Cancelo’s time at Barcelona, albeit short, left a notable impression.

‎Loaned from Manchester City for the 2023/24 season, he played a pivotal role under Xavi Hernández, featuring in 42 matches and logging an impressive 3,318 minutes the fourth-highest total in the squad.

‎During this period, he contributed four goals and five assists, showing his ability to influence the game not just defensively but offensively as well.

‎Despite his performances, Barcelona could not secure a permanent deal in the summer of 2024 due to financial constraints. Consequently, Cancelo opted for a new challenge at Al-Hilal in Saudi Arabia.

‎Al-Hilal Stint and Limited Opportunities

‎Cancelo’s time at Al-Hilal, however, has been disrupted by injury and team dynamics.

‎A hamstring injury early in the season sidelined him for several months, and he has not made any appearances so far this campaign.

‎With Simone Inzaghi sticking to a settled lineup during the first half of the season, opportunities for the Portuguese defender have been limited, prompting reports that he is now set to leave the club in the upcoming January transfer window.

‎Barcelona Shows Interest, Inter Milan Also Watches

‎Fabrizio Romano reports that Barcelona has already made contact with the relevant parties to gauge Cancelo’s situation, signaling serious interest.

‎At the same time, Inter Milan has also approached Al-Hilal to explore a potential loan deal, suggesting there could be competition for the player’s signature.

‎Barcelona’s interest in Cancelo comes at a time of defensive uncertainty. Andreas Christensen has suffered a partial tear of the anterior cruciate ligament in his left knee, forcing the club to explore reinforcement options.

‎While Cancelo would not directly replace Christensen, his arrival could relieve Jules Kounde at right-back, enabling the Frenchman to operate centrally.

‎Additionally, Eric Garcia could transition from the right flank to a centre-back or defensive midfield role, offering more tactical flexibility for Hansi Flick.

‎Originally, Barcelona’s priority for the January transfer window was to bring in a centre-back on loan.

‎However, Cancelo’s versatility and familiarity with the club could make him an attractive alternative, provided that an agreeable economic arrangement can be reached.

‎Cancelo’s Affection for Barcelona

‎The Portuguese defender has never hidden his fondness for Barcelona.

‎On multiple occasions, he has publicly admitted to following the club’s matches and remains impressed by the team’s style and ambitions.

‎This personal connection suggests that Cancelo would likely be open to a return, making him a plausible candidate to provide immediate reinforcement in the midst of a challenging season.