Barcelona Shocks Football World with Unexpected Bid to Bring Back Former Star
Strengthening the defensive roster was Barcelona's primary objective during the January transfer period, and it seems the club has moved closer to accomplishing this goal with reports suggesting they've made an official offer to acquire former Barcelona defender João Cancelo.
Hansi Flick openly expressed his desire to bring in defensive reinforcement in January due to Barcelona's worryingly limited depth in the backline. Andreas Christensen's extended injury was another setback, but the club could potentially reduce up to 80% of his wages by providing his medical documentation to La Liga, creating space for a new signing without violating Financial Fair Play regulations.
With this potential budget available, Barcelona have forwarded an official proposal to Saudi Pro League team Al Hilal to secure Cancelo on loan until the season's end, as reported by Fabrizio Romano.
Cancelo is expected to depart the Middle East during this transfer window and has made himself available to Barcelona recently, seeking a comeback to Catalonia where he played during the 2023–24 campaign on loan from Manchester City.
Barcelona are reportedly seeking to bring Cancelo back on another temporary deal, paying only a minimal portion of his wages. Mundo Deportivo indicates that Cancelo would be prepared to sacrifice a substantial part of his earnings to facilitate his Barcelona return.
With the Catalan club currently in Saudi Arabia for Spanish Super Cup preparations, discussions are anticipated to proceed with Al Hilal over the next few days, though they must move swiftly as other clubs are also pursuing the Portuguese defender.
Barcelona Competing with Inter Milan for Cancelo
Inter Milan are believed to be the other prominent club competing for Cancelo's signature. SPORT reported earlier that the Italian powerhouse had already secured a preliminary agreement with Al Hilal for the move, with only player approval remaining.
Cancelo's preference for returning to Barcelona seems to be the sole obstacle preventing the Inter agreement, as the 31-year-old favors a comeback to Spain.
Flick's primary target was acquiring a left-footed central defender, though he also mentioned that any potential acquisition would "need to be logical." Elite-level options fitting that specific criteria appear unavailable this winter.
Natural left-back Gerard Martín has been utilized as a central defender in Barcelona's previous seven La Liga matches, securing victories in all of them. Cancelo's arrival would likely cement Martín's transition to central defense permanently, while the Portuguese would provide cover for both Alejandro Balde and Jules Kounde on either defensive flank.
With Inter merely awaiting player confirmation, Barcelona face pressure to complete a deal with Al Hilal that matches their financial constraints rapidly. However, despite uncertainty remaining, Barcelona appear nearer than before to securing their first January acquisition under Flick's management.