Hansi Flick battles for João Cancelo: ex-Benfica in Barça's sights | OneFootball

who shone in the last game - ended the season in Barcelona service, but the future of the Portuguese international remains shrouded in doubt. After several months standing out for the Catalan side, Hansi Flick does not want to lose the full-back and has already reportedly given clear instructions to the sporting department to try to keep the former Benfica player.

According to Spanish newspaper 'As', the German coach was "delighted" with João Cancelo's impact since arriving at the club in January. The publication says the Portuguese international adapted to the team's demands "completely and absolutely", "offering attacking depth, experience and versatility" to the blaugrana side.

The same source also adds that Flick has already spoken directly with Deco, Barcelona's sporting director, about fighting to keep the former Benfica player. The coach particularly values the intensity, dynamism and attacking ability Cancelo has shown throughout the second half of the season.

Despite the Catalans' desire, negotiations promise not to be simple. João Cancelo remains tied to Al Hilal and is expected to return to the Saudi club after his loan ends. Even so, the Portuguese defender "is very clear about his desire to continue at Barcelona".

This season, playing for Barcelona, João Cancelo — valued at 9 million euros — has already made 22 official appearances for the Catalans: 15 in La Liga, four in the Champions League and three in the Copa del Rey. .

This article was translated into English by Artificial Intelligence. You can read the original version in 🇵🇹 here.