João Cancelo Raises Al Hilal Concerns Amid Barcelona Transfer Talks
João Cancelo failed to report to Al Hilal's preseason camp in Austria as negotiations continue over a potential permanent move back to Barcelona.
João Cancelo Fails to Report to Al Hilal's Training Camp
João Cancelo's future has once again become one of the hottest topics of the summer transfer window after the Portuguese defender failed to report to Al Hilal's preseason training camp in Austria. The full-back was expected to join the squad following his vacation after the 2026 FIFA World Cup, but he was noticeably absent.
While the club welcomed back several international players, Cancelo never arrived. The Portuguese defender remains under contract with Al Hilal through 2027, but negotiations over a permanent move to Barcelona continue to gather momentum.
So far, Al Hilal has not issued an official explanation regarding Cancelo's absence, a silence that has only intensified speculation surrounding a transfer that has reportedly been progressing for several weeks.
Barcelona Continue to Push for the Portuguese Defender
Barcelona's interest in Cancelo is no secret. After his successful spell with the Catalan club, the Blaugrana view the Portuguese international as an ideal addition thanks to his ability to play on either side of the defense.
Negotiations between the two clubs remain ongoing, with super-agent Jorge Mendes continuing to work on a deal that would finally bring the defender back to Camp Nou on a permanent basis.
Multiple reports suggest the transfer could be completed for a fee of around €10 million, although fiscal and administrative issues are still preventing the agreement from being finalized.
Hansi Flick Wants Cancelo as Soon as Possible
Barcelona head coach Hansi Flick has reportedly already approved the move and considers Cancelo a priority reinforcement before the start of the new season.
The Portuguese defender's versatility is one of his greatest strengths. Capable of playing as either a right-back or left-back, Cancelo would provide tactical flexibility and help solve several structural issues within Barcelona's defensive setup.
The player's own intentions also appear to favor the move. Cancelo is believed to be eager to return to Barcelona, making the negotiations considerably easier for all parties involved.
Al Hilal's Silence Adds to the Uncertainty
Cancelo's absence stood in sharp contrast to the return of other international players. Fellow Portuguese midfielder Rúben Neves reported to the Austrian camp as scheduled, completed his medical examinations, and was officially welcomed back by Al Hilal through the club's social media channels.
Meanwhile, Al Hilal continued its preseason preparations and even played a friendly in Austria without providing any update regarding Cancelo's situation, leaving supporters and media searching for answers.
With the summer transfer window entering a decisive stage, the coming days could determine whether Barcelona and Al Hilal finally complete a deal that appears to be edging closer to becoming reality.
