Barcelona exploring option to resign former defensive star – report | OneFootball

According to a recent report from Fichajes, Barcelona have set their sights on bringing Joao Cancelo back to the club as their next major signing.

According to the outlet, the 31-year-old full-back has quickly become a top target for new coach Hansi Flick, who wants to strengthen the team’s defence and provide more stability on the wings.

After a season in which Barça struggled with fatigue and injuries in wide areas, Flick believes Cancelo is the perfect player to give his system the balance it needs.

Cancelo knows Flick’s style

Cancelo already spent time at Barça on loan and left a great impression both on the pitch and in the dressing room. His ability to play in multiple positions, helping in both attack and defense, makes him an ideal fit for Flick’s flexible style.

The German coach knows Cancelo well and appreciates his experience at top clubs like Manchester City and Bayern Munich.

Joao Cancelo is back on Barcelona’s radar. (Photo by Yasser Bakhsh/Getty Images)

On top of that, Cancelo recently admitted his love for Barcelona, which could make negotiations with his current club, Al-Hilal, smoother.

Negotiations begin

The aforementioned outlet mentions that talks between the clubs have already started, even though there is no official offer on the table yet.

Barcelona are looking at the possibility of making a bid close to €15 million, depending on the funds available after finalising other deals, especially the expected signing of Nico Williams.

The club’s transfer activity will also depend on planned player sales to balance the books and stay within financial rules.

With Joan Garcia and Roony Bardghji already signed, and Nico Williams close to being announced, Barcelona are beginning to form a stronger, refreshed squad.

The plan is simple but ambitious: build a competitive team ready to hit the ground running from the first day of pre-season under Flick.