Three Joao Cancelo alternatives Barcelona are monitoring, including Man United ace – report | OneFootball

Following the expiration of their contracts, Barcelona publicly bid Joao Cancelo and Joao Felix farewell on their social media channels.

But the Catalans are still working hard to ensure the Portuguese tandem stays together at the club next season.

In fact, Joao Cancelo is a top priority for Barcelona, as they are actively negotiating with his agent Jorge Mendes to extend his loan for another season, mirroring Joao Felix’s situation.

However, the Catalans are aware of the challenges involved, given Manchester City’s intent to sell Cancelo. This has prompted Barcelona to explore alternative options at right-back.

According to reports relayed by Mundo Deportivo, Barcelona have identified three alternatives if Cancelo does not join.

Aaron Wan-Bissaka

Wan-Bissaka’s contract at Man United expires in 2025. (Photo by JUSTIN TALLIS/AFP via Getty Images)

The 26-year-old right-back from Manchester United has entered Barcelona’s crosshairs, with the club deeming him a sound replacement for Cancelo.

Wan-Bissaka joined United in 2019 and has since played 190 games for the team. The right-back is known for his defensive abilities, especially in 1v1 scenarios.

Considering that the 26-year-old’s contract expires in 2025, Barça would stand a good chance of acquiring him for a discounted fee.

Emerson Royal

Could Emerson return to Barcelona? (Photo by Ryan Pierse/Getty Images)

Furthermore, Barcelona are considering former right-back Emerson Royal as a potential recruit.

The 25-year-old presently plies his trade with Tottenham Hotspur and is contracted until 2026.

With Emerson struggling for regular game time in England, he is unlikely to have a long-term future at Tottenham and the Lilywhites could be open to selling him for a reduced fee.

Arnau Martinez

Arnau Martinez was linked with Barcelona in 2023 as well. (Photo by Juan Manuel Serrano Arce/Getty Images)

This is not the first time Arnau Martinez has piqued Barcelona’s interest, as he was strongly linked with the Blaugranes last summer.

The 21-year-old’s contract with Girona expires in June next year, which suggests that Barcelona may have a renewed opportunity to pursue him.

As an excellent all-rounder who thrives in both attacking and defensive roles, Martinez could be the solution to the Catalans’ problems.