Marca: Barcelona close to permanent deal for Cancelo, player insistence key

Published Aug 5, 12:51 PM UTC

According to Marca reporter M. Carmen Torres, Barcelona is close to finalizing a permanent transfer for 32-year-old Portuguese full-back Joao Cancelo from Saudi club Al Hilal. Personal terms have been fully agreed, and the remaining details with Al Hilal are being finalized. Cancelo's personal insistence on joining Barcelona was key to unlocking negotiations. The official announcement is expected early next week. Cancelo, who previously played for Barcelona on loan in the 2023-24 and 2025-26 seasons, will sign a two-year contract. He has made 65 appearances for Barcelona, scoring 6 goals. Manager Hansi Flick will gain a versatile defender capable of playing both full-back positions, as well as winger and interior midfielder.