Barcelona are negotiating with Al-Hilal to sign Cancelo: details of the offer and the competition

Reliable Italian journalist Fabrizio Romano, who specializes in the transfer market, has dropped a bombshell by revealing that the management of FC Barcelona has made an official and serious move to sign Portuguese full-back Joao Cancelo, a player for Al-Hilal FC, during the current winter transfer window.

Details of the Catalan offer

According to what Romano posted on his official X account (formerly Twitter), the Catalan club did not stop at verbal interest, but sent a formal offer to Al-Hilal's management requesting to loan the Portuguese star. The proposed offer stipulates that Barcelona would only cover a small portion of the player's hefty salary, given the financial constraints the Spanish club is facing. He indicated that negotiations are still ongoing between the two parties to reach a mutually agreeable solution.

Inter Milan enters the race

In a related development, the deal has become increasingly complex and intriguing with Inter Milan's strong entry into the race. Romano explained that the Nerazzurri had already reached a verbal agreement with Al-Hilal last week. The Italian club's plan involves including player exchanges to reduce the cost, with defenders Stefan de Vrij and Francesco Acerbi being mentioned as potential part of the deal and their move to the Saudi league. However, João Cancelo's desire remains the deciding factor, as reports indicate his strong inclination to return to Barcelona, ​​the club he played for last season.

Historical context and importance of the deal

These moves come amid a persistent crisis at right-back for Barcelona, ​​a position they have been struggling with for years. Cancelo played for Barcelona on loan last season from Manchester City, delivering impressive performances that led fans and the coach to demand his permanent transfer. However, the economic crisis and Financial Fair Play regulations prevented a permanent move, after which he joined Al-Hilal in Saudi Arabia in a high-profile transfer.

The potential return of Cancelo is of paramount importance to coach Hansi Flick, as the team currently lacks a modern right-back with the attacking flair and playmaking ability that the Portuguese star possesses. This signing would be an ideal tactical solution to the team's defensive and offensive problems on the right flank.

Financial and contractual situation

It's worth noting that João Cancelo has a long-term contract with Al-Hilal that runs until June 30, 2027, giving the Saudi club significant negotiating power. His current market value is estimated at around €10 million according to Transfermarkt. The question remains: will the player's desire and Barcelona's pressure succeed in finalizing the deal, or will Inter Milan manage to snatch the flying full-back thanks to their more flexible negotiating tactics?