Cancelo set to complete Barcelona return

Joao Cancelo returned to Al-Hilal training this Friday following his post-World Cup break, though his future is largely settled. According to Mundo Deportivo, the Portuguese defender aged 32 is poised to complete his permanent return to FC Barcelona, following previous loans from Manchester City two seasons ago and from the Saudi club during the second half of this campaign.

The operation is progressing smoothly after reaching an agreement with Al-Hilal to facilitate his departure. He will continue training in Saudi Arabia while bureaucratic hurdles—particularly tax matters—are resolved. The expectation is the deal will be completed in the coming days for a fee between €8-10 million.

Barring any last-minute complications, Cancelo will sign a two-year contract running until June 2028. Barcelona's technical staff view his experience, versatility across both flanks and squad familiarity as a strategic reinforcement for Hansi Flick's defence ahead of the new season.