Barcelona Seals First January Signing as Deco Declares Deal "Almost Done"
Barcelona are approaching the completion of securing multi-position defender João Cancelo from Al Hilal, as confirmed by sporting director Deco.
What began as speculation in December will soon become reality, with Cancelo set to finalize his Camp Nou comeback within days—reports suggest he had become dissatisfied with life in Saudi Arabia following his departure from Europe in 2024.
The arrangement, still awaiting final completion, involves Barcelona acquiring Cancelo on a temporary basis through the end of the 2025–26 campaign. Sources indicate the short-term acquisition will require an investment of approximately €5 million ($5.8 million).
Given Barcelona's ongoing financial constraints, this move has been facilitated by Andreas Christensen's recent injury complications. The Danish defender's forced absence enables the club to reallocate 80% of his wage expenses while maintaining La Liga's financial fair play requirements.
"We hope so," Deco responded, according to MARCA, when questioned about the Cancelo agreement's progress.
"We're completing the final steps," the sporting director explained. "His medical examination is still pending, but he'll be traveling to Barcelona shortly. We're set to finalize this transaction."
Cancelo reportedly declined an approach from Serie A powerhouse Inter to rejoin Barcelona for his second stint—the Portuguese defender featured in 42 matches during his previous temporary move from Manchester City in the 2023–24 campaign.
How Will Barcelona Deploy João Cancelo?
Cancelo doesn't directly replace Christensen's center-back role. However, his versatility to operate on either flank provides crucial defensive coverage.
The probable approach involves Gerard Martín solidifying his position as the primary left-sided center-back alongside Pau Cubarsí, or Jules Koundé shifting inside from right-back with Cancelo filling that vacancy. Ronald Araujo is also approaching his comeback after receiving some rest time, which seems to have significantly impacted the choice to pursue Cancelo's services.
Hansi Flick 'Pleased' with Cancelo Addition
Cancelo wasn't Barcelona's sole target for winter reinforcement, but he's the player that has manager Hansi Flick feeling "pleased" as the transfer nears completion.
"Deco and I explored numerous possibilities," Flick shared with media on Wednesday.
"Ultimately, once Ronald returns, we'll possess additional quality choices in central defense.
"With João's arrival, we'd gain extra flexibility at full-back positions on both flanks. He brings excellent attacking capabilities. However, to my knowledge, the deal remains incomplete. Should it materialize, I'll be delighted. We'll gain another alternative, particularly in our forward play.
"As mentioned, we evaluated various possibilities, including pursuing a center-back. However, considering this is a six-month solution, this represents an excellent choice. João possesses exceptional talent."