João Cancelo near permanent move to FC Barcelona

FC Barcelona are close to completing a permanent transfer for Portuguese full‑back João Cancelo, who has been on loan from Saudi club Al‑Hilal since January 2026. Negotiations have accelerated after Portugal’s elimination from the 2026 World Cup, allowing the clubs to agree on a fee of roughly €10 million – a reduction from Al‑Hilal’s initial €15 million asking price. Cancelo has accepted a salary cut of about 70 % compared with his Saudi earnings, facilitating a two‑year contract that could run until June 2028.

The deal reflects Barcelona’s financial constraints and their desire to reinforce the defence under coach Hansi Flick. Cancelo’s desire to leave Al‑Hilal, citing limited playing time and a strained relationship with coach Simone Inzaghi, has also pushed the Saudi side to lower their demands. The transfer is expected to be finalised before the start of pre‑season training on 13 July.