The former Barcelona defender wanted to return to the club – appreciated by the Director Sporting Deco
Portuguese defender Joao Cancelo had a roller-coaster ride at Barcelona last season, arriving in scintillating form from Manchester City on loan, but ended the year as one of their weakest players. The veteran full-back is keen to have a second spell at Barcelona though.
Cancelo was expected to return to Barcelona last summer, and he waited to see if a deal could happen. However Sport explained that the city was not willing to accept another loan, and Barcelona they have no room in their salary cap.
I cancel30 years old, he is willing to do everything to return to Barcelona, considering it the best place for his football. The Sports Director Deco had planned to return him to the club, but with his salary cap problems, he explored other options, including Marc Pubill from Almeria. Last summer, Cancelo moved to Al-Hilal in Saudi Arabia for 20 million euros, but also doubled his salary.
Christopher Nkunku has appeared on Barcelona's radar. He was offered to the club, but there are doubts about his physical condition. Via @sport pic.twitter.com/LP8exnPHN6
— Barcacentre (@barcacentre) December 23, 2024
Deco and manager Hansi Flick want to strengthen the full-back position next summer, but Deco would prefer to find a young defender for the right side who is able to move forward and perform in his position. Initially, they could provide cover for Jules Kounde, allowing him to rest more and play in central defense.
The right-back position has been a consistent problem for Barcelona for much of the last decade, and while Kounde impressed earlier in the season, his form has dipped of late. Many put this down to fatigue, with Hector Fort the only natural alternative in Flick's squad.
