Hansi Flick says Barcelona close to Joao Cancelo loan after shifting January plan | OneFootball

Hansi Flick says Barcelona are closing in on a deal to bring Joao Cancelo back on loan, though the move is not yet complete. The full-back would rejoin for the rest of 2025-26.

According to Goal.com, Cancelo spent 2023-24 with Barcelona after falling out of Manchester City’s first-team picture, but a permanent switch was declined. Now contracted to Al-Hilal following a 2024 transfer, the full-back, who turns 32 in May, wants a return to Europe this month. Inter explored a reunion, but he favoured Barcelona.

Barcelona entered January seeking defensive cover after Andreas Christensen’s ACL injury. Flick said initial plans for a centre-back changed after talks with sporting director Deco, noting Ronald Araujo’s impending return and Cancelo’s ability to play both flanks and add attacking thrust. He stressed the deal is not done but said he would welcome it.

He added Barcelona must be smart with spending compared with rivals, and that young players are progressing. Bringing in a veteran now, he said, could complement that development.

Araujo is in contention to play again after a mental health break in December as Barcelona head to Saudi Arabia for the Spanish Super Cup. They face Athletic Club in the semi-finals, with Real Madrid or Atletico Madrid awaiting the winners. Asked about Araujo featuring on Wednesday, Flick said they will assess him in training and no decision has been made.

There are also concerns over Lamine Yamal’s fitness after he missed an open training session at King Abdullah Sport City.

Source: Goal.com