Barcelona is in talks to possibly re-sign Portugal international João Cancelo during the January transfer window, according to a source familiar with the situation.
Discussions have taken place between Barcelona and Cancelo’s current team, Saudi Arabian club Al Hilal, as well as with the player’s representatives, following a request from coach Hansi Flick for additional defensive options this month.
The negotiations are centered around the financial aspects of the agreement, with Barcelona favoring a loan option while still covering part of Cancelo’s salary.
At 31 years old, Cancelo spent the 2023-24 season on loan at Barcelona from Manchester City, where he made 42 appearances and scored four goals.
He later transferred to Al Hilal in the summer of 2024, signing a contract with the Saudi club that extends until 2027.
However, Cancelo is reportedly open to returning to Europe, with indications that another of his previous clubs, Inter Milan, is also expressing interest in him.
Last week, Barça’s coach Flick mentioned he is eager to add another defender to the roster this January, particularly after losing Andreas Christensen due to an ACL injury expected to sideline him for four months.
Ronald Araújo has also been unavailable since November due to a mental health break, which has left the team relying on teenager Pau Cubarsí and converted left-back Gerard Martín as their primary center-back pairing in recent matches.
Bringing Cancelo back would enhance the full-back positions and would allow Jules Koundé, who has primarily played at right-back during his time at Barcelona, to revert to his preferred central defense position.
Throughout his career, Cancelo has demonstrated versatility, playing effectively as both a right and left full-back, and can also advance into more offensive roles if needed.