Joao Cancelo ‘to sign’ for Barcelona after Al Hilal exit | OneFootball

Barcelona's push to bring back Joao Cancelo has received a major lift. The 32-year-old has left Al Hilal and become a free agent, clearing the way for a permanent move.

Mundo Deportivo reports that Cancelo resolved his Al Hilal contract with a year to run, and he is expected in Barcelona next Tuesday to complete the formalities and sign.

Hansi Flick wants him retained. Cancelo's displays on the left since joining have convinced the German, who now counts him among his key options for the new season.

Al Hilal had valued the defender at about 10 million euros early in the window, but recent developments flipped the talks. His wish to leave, the club's foreign-player numbers and a strained relationship with Simone Inzaghi pushed a termination, handing Barcelona the chance to strike a free transfer and enabling Cancelo to improve his terms.

Barcelona are planning a two-season offer, reflecting faith in his ability despite his age. This would be his third stint in the shirt, after a loan in 2023-2024 and a return in the second half of 2025-2026.

Cancelo has long expressed admiration for the club in statements and on social media, and is now close to settling at Camp Nou after two loan spells.

Source: Goal.com

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