On-loan Barcelona ace ready to give up significant part of salary to secure permanent transfer | OneFootball

Joao Cancelo has begun to hit top form at FC Barcelona. After a rather slow start to his second stint with the club, following his January arrival on loan from Al Hilal, the 31-year-old full-back has begun to gain prominence in Hansi Flick’s plans and become an important player.

The confidence placed in him by Flick has helped Cancelo establish himself as a regular on the left side of the defence following the injury of Alejandro Balde.

At the same time, he has also become a valuable option on the right flank, where Jules Kounde has also been sidelined through injury.

Cancelo wants permanent transfer

Now, according to SPORT, Cancelo is performing with the aim of convincing Barcelona to turn his loan into a permanent transfer.

The Portuguese international is highly motivated and aware of what is at stake. His potential long-term future at Barça provides him with extra motivation to prove he deserves to remain with the club next season.

Cancelo remains tied to Al Hilal until 2027, but if that agreement can be terminated, he would finally have a clear path to join Barcelona permanently after two loans.

Cancelo wants to stay at Barcelona. (Photo by Juan Manuel Serrano Arce/Getty Images)

He is willing to give up a significant portion of the very high salary he earns in Saudi Arabia in order to terminate his contract and settle permanently in Barcelona, where he feels very happy both professionally and personally.

Still going strong

At 31 years old, Cancelo has shown that he still has plenty left to offer. The former Manchester City defender has delivered some significant performances in recent weeks – in the games against Levante, Atletico Madrid, Athletic Club, and, more recently, Sevilla.

Despite struggling defensively, like the rest of the team, against Newcastle United, Cancelo played an important role in the build-up to the moment that led to the penalty from which Lamine Yamal secured a 1-1 draw.

In the 5-2 win against Sevilla, he helped create the first two goals by forcing two penalties and later scored the fourth himself.

Cancelo has also developed a strong partnership with Raphinha on the left flank. The Brazilian winger helps him with defensive responsibilities, which have traditionally been considered the defender’s weakest point.

The 31-year-old is eager to prolong his stay at Barcelona and his recent performances are only increasing his chances. The willingness to sacrifice a significant portion his salary will also work in his favour.