Barcelona has been actively pursuing a deal with Al Hilal for Joao Cancelo since the summer transfer window opened.
The Portuguese full-back impressed during his loan at the Catalan club last season, especially in the second half.
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Primarily playing as a left-back, he took over that role from Alejandro Balde, securing his position as coach Hansi Flick’s preferred choice.
Cancelo has expressed a strong desire to leave Al Hilal and return to Barça, but the Saudi Pro League club has been difficult in negotiations.
According to SPORT, Cancelo’s situation at Al Hilal has taken a negative turn, as he was excluded from the squad for the club’s opening match in the Saudi league.
Inzaghi Excludes Cancelo
Simone Inzaghi has opted not to include Cancelo in the lineup for the game against Al-Faisaly, just a week after the defender returned to training with Al Hilal following his summer break.
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The coach believes that the 32-year-old is not yet fit enough to compete, even though Cancelo had a week of training with his teammates.
Hansi Flick is keen to have Cancelo back at Barcelona. (Photo by Eric Alonso/Getty Images)
Consequently, Cancelo will miss Al Hilal’s first competitive game of the season.
This situation is particularly significant as Inzaghi and Cancelo have previously faced challenges in their working relationship.
The Portuguese international has found himself on the bench and out of the matchday squad under Inzaghi.
Stalled Negotiations with Barcelona
For Barça, this development comes amid stalled negotiations with Al Hilal.
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Hansi Flick wants Cancelo back, but the two clubs have yet to reach an agreement on the financial terms for his return to Barcelona.
Al Hilal is still demanding around €10 million for the defender, who has one year remaining on his contract.
Barcelona, on the other hand, is aiming for a significant reduction and is exploring alternative structures to make the deal more financially feasible.
Patience Needed from Barça
Cancelo is eager to join Camp Nou. (Photo by Eric Alonso/Getty Images)
Cancelo’s omission from Inzaghi’s squad does not guarantee that Al Hilal will lower their asking price.
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Nonetheless, it highlights the increasingly awkward position the Saudi club finds itself in.
Retaining a highly paid player whom the coach does not see as part of his plans is far from ideal.
This scenario could give Barça a reason for optimism that Al Hilal may be willing to adjust their demands somewhat, and there’s little cause for them to rush.
Flick clearly appreciates Cancelo’s versatility and experience, but Barça is also cautious not to overpay for a player with just one year left on his contract.
The coming days could see progress in Barça‘s pursuit of the 32-year-old, with hopes that Deco might negotiate a reduced fee for Cancelo’s exit.