Strengthening the right-back position is one of the main targets for FC Barcelona in this summer transfer window. While the club is still pondering its options, Joao Cancelo has emerged as one player in whom the Catalans are particularly interested.
Manchester City currently owns the Portuguese fullback, but the player has a highly complicated relationship with the Premier League side. There have been reports of him falling out with former Barcelona and current Manchester City head coach, Pep Guardiola, and as a result, the English club is keen to let the player move on from the club.
It was in such an environment that the Citizens sent Joao Cancelo on loan to Bayern Munich for the second half of the last season. However, the Bavarian side showed no intent to sign the fullback permanently, and he is set to return to the newly crowned Champions League winners once again.
The latest news in his case has been provided by Fabrizio Romano, who claims that Manchester City want to sort out this situation before the start of their preseason, and the Portuguese will be available in the market.
Romano also mentions that FC Barcelona are strongly interested in the player, while Arsenal have also made an approach for him as well.
According to previous reports, FC Barcelona are looking to get the experienced fullback on loan and get another younger fullback for a long-term solution to their right-back situation. However, Manchester City are looking only for a full sale.
While this saga is not even nearly over, FC Barcelona would definitely benefit from getting a player of Cancelo’s quality, either on loan or a permanent transfer. He is among the best fullbacks currently playing and is comfortable on both sides of the pitch. Thus, in addition to providing a natural right-back to Xavi, he would also provide depth to the left-back position.