João Cancelo unlikely to return to Benfica in 2026/27 as Barcelona pursue permanent deal | OneFootball

João Cancelo is highly unlikely to rejoin Benfica in 2026/27 despite recent expressions of affection for the club. According to Glorioso 1904, a move next season is not on the cards.

The right-back is on loan at Barcelona from Saudi side Al Hilal. Contractual and financial factors make an immediate return unfeasible, and there is no concrete plan in place.

Barcelona intend to make his stay permanent, with the Catalan club giving the green light to pursue a deal. The Portugal international will reduce his salary to help facilitate the move, underlining his commitment to the project.

Aged 31 and back in Europe, he is rebuilding fitness and aims to sustain the level he has shown so far. A Benfica homecoming could still happen, but only further down the line.

This season for Barcelona, Cancelo, valued at nine million euros, has made 14 competitive appearances, eight in La Liga, three in the Champions League and three in the Copa del Rey. Across 916 minutes, he has one goal and three assists.

Source: Glorioso 1904