Barcelona inform Jorge Mendes they plan to keep on-loan star beyond this season

Though FC Barcelona had been prioritising the signing of a centre again within the winter switch window, the Catalans in the end moved for the fullback Joao Cancelo, largely attributable to monetary constraints that made his arrival extra possible.

His registration was solely made attainable following the long-term harm of Andreas Christensen, permitting the membership to convey him in on a mortgage deal till the top of the season.

Cancelo’s return to Barcelona initially got here with some uncertainty. Even head coach Hansi Flick had his doubts, however circumstances quickly labored within the Portuguese defender’s favour.

Accidents to Alejandro Balde and Jules Kounde opened the door for Cancelo to determine himself as a daily starter, and he has taken that chance with each palms. His attacking contributions from the flank have been notably spectacular, and he as soon as once more confirmed his significance with a decisive show within the current win over Atletico Madrid.

Past his on-pitch performances, the Portuguese worldwide has additionally built-in seamlessly into the dressing room, profitable over teammates and workers alike together with his professionalism and dedication. This has additional strengthened the rising consensus throughout the membership to retain him past the present marketing campaign.

In response to SPORTBarcelona have now taken the primary concrete step in direction of that goal by informing Mendes of their intention to maintain Cancelo for subsequent season. The participant himself can be eager to proceed, as he feels valued on the membership and is absolutely settled within the metropolis.

The following section of the operation will contain negotiations with Al-Hilal, with whom Cancelo nonetheless has one yr left on his contract. The Saudi aspect is anticipated to demand a big price, which means all events might want to discover a resolution that works financially.

For now, discussions stay at an early stage, however each Barcelona and the participant are aligned of their need to proceed collectively, leaving the ultimate consequence depending on the progress of talks within the coming weeks.