Cancelo's move to Barcelona getting closer

FC Barcelona

The Portuguese full-back would sign for two seasons in a transfer that, between a fixed fee and add-ons, would not exceed 10 million euros. The main pending issue is the taxation of the contract, since in Saudi Arabia he did not pay taxes and in Spain he will have to if he lives in the country for more than six months.

The player's desire has weighed heavily in the negotiations. Cancelo told Al Hilal that he did not want to return to Saudi Arabia after feeling disadvantaged for not having been registered in La Liga, a particularly delicate situation in a World Cup year. His relationship with Simone Inzaghi also is not at its best, so all parties view the transfer as a convenient exit.

The Saudi club has tried to secure the highest possible income, although its room for pressure was limited by the player's wish to wear blue and garnet again. Al Hilal also maintains interest in Marc Casadó, but that matter is separate and will depend on the decision of the academy player, who will have to weigh whether he accepts Saudi Arabia or prefers another destination.

A priority reinforcement for Flick and Deco

Cancelo was the first choice of the Barça to strengthen the full-back position after his strong end to the season as a blue-and-garnet player. He arrived in January as an emergency solution following the injury of Christensen and gradually gained weight until he won the starting spot at left back ahead of Alejandro Balde.

His performances convinced Hansi Flick, who values his experience, his attacking mindset, and his ability to operate in different defensive profiles. Deco also was clear that the club should wait for him until the final stretch of the transfer window, despite offers received from other left-backs during the summer.

The Portuguese already made a major effort when he arrived on loan from Manchester City and also rejected in January a higher offer from Inter to go out on loan to Italy. Now, during his vacation, he could finalize the termination of the final year of his contract still left in Saudi Arabia, accepting a significant financial sacrifice and agreeing to a manageable salary for the next two seasons.

With his arrival, Barça does not plan to bring in another full-back unless an unexpected departure occurs. Balde and Koundé have been on the market, but neither has shown any intention of leaving, and the club will not force moves. Cancelo would play on the left flank, while the right side would be for Koundé and Eric Garcia, who this season will also get minutes in that position.

Planning leaves the cases of Héctor Fort and Xavi Espart up in the air. Everything points to both possibly leaving, one via a transfer and the other on loan, although the final decision will be made after pre-season.

Once Cancelo's signing is sorted out, the focus of the sporting leadership will shift to the striker. Julián Álvarez remains the top priority, and the operation is still open, although it will not be known until after the World Cup whether the Argentine can make it to the Camp Nou. The club has alternatives, but there is a commitment to the player to try to bring him in.