Joao Cancelo ‘registered’ in Al-Hilal squad as Barcelona talks stall | OneFootball

Al-Hilal have moved to clarify Joao Cancelo’s immediate status as negotiations with Barcelona over a permanent deal continue.

Mundo Deportivo reports the Saudi Pro League side have officially registered the Portugal defender for the new season and handed him the number 20 shirt.

After his post-season break and international duty, the full-back has returned to training at the club while discussions continue over a potential departure.

Al-Hilal are holding firm on their valuation as they seek to recoup part of the investment made when bringing him from Manchester City. In the meantime he has been managing his fitness as the saga unfolds.

Barcelona remain interested in taking the versatile defender back to Catalonia after his loan spells, valuing his experience and flexibility down the flanks. The player is keen on a Camp Nou return.

Both clubs are seeking a compromise on the fee as the new campaign approaches and the window ticks down. For now, Cancelo remains with Al-Hilal.

Source: Goal.com

“Artificial intelligence was used to assist in creating this article based on reporting from the original source quoted.”