Cancelo seals permanent Barcelona return on free transfer | OneFootball

Joao Cancelo has completed a permanent return to Barcelona on a free transfer, signing a deal until June 2029 after ending his Al-Hilal spell.

According to Mundo Deportivo, the Portuguese full-back landed in Barcelona this afternoon ahead of finalising the move. He terminated a contract that still had a year to run to rejoin the club he had served on loan.

Cancelo featured for Barcelona in 2023-2024 under Xavi Hernandez following his arrival from Manchester City, then again in 2025-2026 under Hansi Flick after a January loan from Al-Hilal. His wish to stay has now been realised.

Al-Hilal initially sought 10 million euros to let him go. Cancelo pushed for a contract rescission, with coach Simone Inzaghi not planning to use him and foreign-player quotas also a factor.

Before leaving Saudi Arabia he posted from the plane with the message, "I've returned home", underlining his attachment to the club. He said he had done everything possible to come back, including giving up part of his salary, and told Deco his options were clear, "Either move to Barcelona or stay at Al-Hilal without regular playing time".

Barcelona value his versatility, with the defender able to play on both flanks. A formal presentation is not expected and this time he arrives as a permanent signing.

Source: Goal.com

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