FC Barcelona are preparing to strengthen its defense just days into the January transfer window with the imminent return of Joao Cancelo. The Portuguese full-back, who impressed during his loan spell at the club in the 2023/24 season, is set to rejoin the Catalans until the end of the current campaign.
According to Fabrizio Romano, Barcelona already have a deal in place with the Saudi side Al-Hilal to sign Cancelo on loan until June. The Italian journalist has already marked the move with his signature “Here we go” tweet.
The Catalan club will cover €4 million of Cancelo’s salary, a figure made possible by the long-term absence of Andreas Christensen, who is expected to be sidelined for at least four months due to injury.
The player has already given his approval for the move, leaving only the formal signing of contracts to make the transfer official.
Despite the agreement being nearly complete, Cancelo will not be available for the Spanish Super Cup semifinal against Athletic Club on Wednesday evening. He is also expected to miss a potential final against Atletico Madrid or Real Madrid if Barcelona advances past the Basque side.
Before registering Joao Cancelo, Barcelona must complete the necessary paperwork to deregister Christensen from the squad.
It also remains uncertain whether Cancelo will join the team while they are still in Saudi Arabia or wait to link up with the squad upon returning to Barcelona.
The former Manchester City star’s arrival promises to add experience and versatility to Hansi Flick’s defensive options as the club seeks to maintain momentum in the second half of the season.
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