Joao Cancelo skips Al-Hilal camp as Barcelona transfer looms

Portuguese full‑back Joao Cancelo did not report to Al‑Hilal’s pre‑season training camp in Austria, remaining in Portugal while the Saudi club and FC Barcelona negotiate his permanent move. Reports say the player is training alone in the Algarve and has posted workout videos, indicating he is maintaining fitness ahead of a potential return to the Camp Nou. Al‑Hilal confirmed that Cancelo’s absence was coordinated with the club, but later statements suggested the club had no information on his whereabouts. Negotiations, led by agent Jorge Mendes, are reportedly focused on a fee of around €10 million, with the player’s contract running until 2027 making a departure straightforward. Barcelona coach Hansi Flick has praised Cancelo’s versatility and is eager to secure his services after a successful loan spell. The transfer remains pending, with both clubs working to finalize the agreement in the final days of the summer window.