Most of the attention in any transfer window concerning FC Barcelona is towards their offensive targets. Those are usually the names that pull the numbers both on and off the field and it makes sense. However, no great Barcelona team has ever come into being without a reliable back line to count on.
That is why, even when most of the focus remains on potential offensive arrivals at Barcelona, the club continues to consider the arrival of a new defensive recruit to be important as well. With Hansi Flick already getting good results out of this team, it would not hurt to give him some additional cover in case he needs it.
Over the course of the last several weeks, the name of the fullback being constantly linked to Barcelona is that of Manchester City player Joao Cancelo. Having been at Barcelona just last season on loan, it would appear that La Blaugrana want him for one more campaign at least.
However, according to Fabrizio Romano (h/t Barca Buzz), there is a major complication that could prevent the Catalan club from having things go their way. Just as was previously reported, Saudi Arabian side Al-Hilal remain as committed as ever to making sure they sign the Portuguese fullback.
Furthermore, Romano has confirmed that the offer from Al-Hilal is definitely a financially appealing one for Joao Cancelo. They have already put an offer infront of his agent, Jorge Mendes, and the team from the Middle East is now optimistic about getting the green light to sign him.
It is also understood that their proposal to Manchester City is a much better one than Barcelona is offering. Given their financial restrictions, however, it would be impossible to expect the Catalan giants to be able to match whatever offer Al-Hilal has currently out on the table.
However, even despite their optimism to get this deal done, Romano has confirmed that Cancelo still continues to wait for Barcelona. While it may not be for much longer, there is at least a belief that the player would love to return to Spain and play under Hansi Flick. The ball, however, is now in Barça’s court and they must be quick if they want anything to do with Cancelo anytime soon.
