Barcelona transfer boost? Al-Hilal make João Cancelo decision amid Camp Nou return talks

Barcelona’s pursuit of João Cancelo has taken another twist after Saudi Pro League side Al-Hilal handed the Portugal international a new squad number despite ongoing negotiations over a return to Camp Nou.

The move appears, at first glance, to suggest Cancelo remains part of Simone Inzaghi’s plans for the new season. However, reports indicate the decision may simply be a negotiating tactic as Al-Hilal attempt to maximise the transfer fee before allowing the defender to leave.

Cancelo has been strongly linked with a third spell at Barcelona throughout the summer after impressing during his previous stints at the club. The full-back reportedly considers a return to Catalonia his preferred option following Portugal’s early exit from the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

According to reports, personal terms between Barcelona and Cancelo have already been agreed, while the two clubs are believed to be closing in on an agreement worth around €10 million. The final stage of negotiations, however, has proved more complicated than expected.

Although Cancelo has returned to training under Inzaghi, sources close to the negotiations remain optimistic that the transfer will be completed before the end of the summer transfer window.

Al-Hilal’s stance has also been influenced by the arrival of full-back Mohammed Mahzari, who has strengthened the Saudi club’s defensive options and reduced Cancelo’s importance within the squad. Despite that, the club are understood to be holding firm in an effort to secure the best possible financial package before approving his departure.

Barcelona remain confident the deal will eventually go through, but the latest developments suggest they may have to meet Al-Hilal’s final demands before securing the experienced defender’s return to Camp Nou.