João Cancelo keen to leave Saudi Arabia for Europe return – report | OneFootball

Portuguese international João Cancelo is hoping to leave Saudi Arabian club Al Hilal and return to Europe during the winter transfer window, according to reports in the Middle East.

Cancelo has been in Saudi Arabia since last August when he joined Al Hilal from on a three-year contract from Manchester City for a reported fee of €24m. The 31-year-old made 39 appearances in his first season in Riyadh, but has been less involved this term due to registration issues.

As has been the case with various foreign imports into the Pro League, Cancelo finds himself unregistered to play in domestic competition. The Seleção man is clear to represent Al Hilal in the Asian Champions League, but lack of involvement domestically restricts his ability to build consistency of performance.

Therefore, Cancelo has become disillusioned by the situation according to reports. Saudi Arabian outlet 365scores, claims agent Jorge Mendes has been instructed to find his client a new club during the January transfer window. The news comes after Cancelo recently spoke openly while on international duty of his desire to return to European football.

"Obviously, I dream of returning to Europe,” he said. “I have one more year left on my contract with Al Hilal, but I'm always open to new adventures. Only the future will tell."

Al Hilal coach Simone Inzaghi is believed to be adamant that the 31-year-old stay with the club, but Cancelo’s mind appears to be set on a move. While speculation of a homecoming with Benfica will no doubt accelerate, the current salary afforded to Cancelo in Saudi Arabia – reported to be around €15m per year net – could prove problematic in such negotiations.

Al Hilal, who also have Rúben Neves on the books, are currently 3rd in the Pro League, four points behind pacesetters Al Nassr, led by coach Jorge Jesus and Cristiano Ronaldo.