Overview
- Barcelona, which informed agent Jorge Mendes on Monday of their intent to keep João Cancelo, has opened negotiations on a permanent move.
- Al‑Hilal has signaled they expect a transfer fee, with reports ranging from about €8 million to €15 million and mentions of roughly €8 million still owed from his earlier move.
- Barcelona prefers a free transfer that would require Cancelo to end his Al‑Hilal contract and accept a lower salary to fit the Spanish league’s wage cap.
- Hansi Flick and the dressing room want Cancelo retained following Saturday’s standout display in the 2‑1 win over Atlético Madrid that cemented his role at left‑back.
- Speaking Tuesday, Cancelo declined to commit publicly, noted he remains under contract with Al‑Hilal, and said his focus is on Barcelona’s current targets.