Flick gives his approval for Barcelona veteran star’s continuity beyond this season | OneFootball

Joao Cancelo returned to FC Barcelona in the January transfer window for a second loan spell, arriving from Saudi Arabian club Al Hilal.

The 31-year-old Portuguese veteran was not exactly a priority target for Barça manager Hansi Flick, who wanted a new centre-back instead.

But the club’s financial condition and the market opportunity with the former Manchester City ace convinced him to give his ‘OK’ to the operation.

Despite being off to a slow start in Catalonia, the full-back has gained a lot of prominence in Flick’s setup in recent weeks.

Permanent move on the cards?

So much so that SPORT now reports that Flick has given his approval for Cancelo to remain at Barcelona beyond the summer. Any move, though, would depend on the financial conditions being feasible for the club.

Cancelo returned to Barça driven by his determination to wear the club’s colours. He saw an opportunity following the injury to Andreas Christensen and offered himself to the club, accepting a reduction in his salary.

As mentioned earlier, he had a slow and challenging start, with minutes not fully forthcoming. But Cancelo has grown in stature in recent weeks, with Flick now highly satisfied with the full-back’s performances, valuing his versatility in particular.

Set to continue beyond this season? (Photo by Eric Alonso/Getty Images)

Cancelo has featured more frequently on the left side due to the physical issues affecting Alejandro Balde. His familiarity with the club, system, and dressing room has allowed him to adapt quickly.

The move has benefited all parties: Barcelona gained an immediate-impact player, while Cancelo is playing at his preferred club and preparing for the World Cup at a high competitive level.

As such, the Portuguese ace is now expected to continue at the club beyond this season, with Flick giving his approval.

Conditions to be met

Cancelo and his agent, Jorge Mendes, are aware of Barcelona’s intentions. However, they must act in the coming weeks to resolve his departure from Al Hilal.

With one year remaining on his contract with the Saudi Arabia club, the Blaugrana’s conditions are clear: he must arrive as a free agent and adjust his salary to fit within the club’s wage policy.

This would require him to forgo a significant portion of his current earnings, which exceed €12 million net in Saudi Arabia. In return, Barça would be prepared to offer him a two-year contract.

Barcelona are clear about continuing with Cancelo if all financial conditions are met. Otherwise, they are already considering alternatives to strengthen the full-back position, with Alejandro Grimaldo resurfacing as an option.