The Italian giants were close but the Portuguese full-back opted to return to the club where he spent the 2023/24 season
FC Barcelona have completed the loan signing of versatile Portuguese full-back João Cancelo from Saudi Pro League side Al-Hilal in a move that adds experience and tactical flexibility to Hansi Flick’s squad for the remainder of the 2025-26 season.
Italian giants Inter Milan looked poised to beat the Catalans in the race to sign Cancelo earlier in the week as the Nerazurri moved quickly to secure a verbal agreement with Saudi Pro League side. However, it was Barcelona’s project and Cancelo’s personal preference that ultimately swung the deal.
Cancelo played for Barça during the 2023/24 season – on loan from Manchester City – largely impressing with his attacking quality across 32 appearances.
Cancelo offers versatility and much-needed defensive cover
Barcelona moved swiftly this January after long-term squad needs were laid bare by injuries, especially in the defensive ranks. The loss of key centre-back Andreas Christensen meant Flick and the board needed a solution that didn’t compromise the team’s competitive momentum.
Cancelo’s ability to operate on both flanks and his experience in high-pressure environments make him a valuable asset to a young and thin Barça back line.
Deco explains why Cancelo was the priority
Sporting director Deco has been vocal about the significance of Cancelo’s arrival, stressing that the loan is about more than just filling a position, but about enhancing squad quality in a financially prudent way.
“Cancelo improves the quality of the squad,” Deco told Jijantes, underlining that his addition wasn’t simply a stopgap but a purposeful reinforcement.
He explained that Barcelona’s objective in January was to elevate the overall level of the team rather than add numbers for depth, highlighting how Cancelo’s skills open up new tactical possibilities for Flick.
Deco also acknowledged the financial realities of the transfer window, pointing to favorable circumstances — including Cancelo’s willingness to take a pay cut and his long-standing desire to return to Barça — that helped make the deal viable despite budget constraints.
“It happened by chance, because he can leave and because he’s always dreamed of coming to Barça,” Deco said.
Barcelona pay a modest fee toward his wages, a pragmatic approach considering financial fair play limits, but the tactical upside is clear.
His ability to play on either side of the defence means that he can alternate at left back with Alejandro Balde – who has had his fair share of injury problems over the years – and on the right side, he gives Flick the option to move Jules Koundé into a central role.