Joao Cancelo rejoins Al Hilal training as Barcelona return remains unresolved

Joao Cancelo rejoins Al Hilal training as Barcelona return remains unresolved It has been taken for granted throughout the summer transfer window that Barcelona would eventually get a deal over the line for Joao Cancelo from Al Hilal. The Portuguese defender spent the second half of last season on loan at the Catalan club, impressing one and all with his versatility. He played at an incredibly high level, displacing Alejandro Balde as the starting left-back by the end of the season. Barça understandably wanted to keep him on a permanent basis after his loan spell and have been in negotiations all summer to reach an agreement with the Saudi club. Cancelo back at work at Al Hilal Despite Al Hilal not having Cancelo in their plans and being willing to let him leave with just one year left on his contract, Barça have not managed to reach an agreement. Now, as revealed by the SPL club’s official handle, the veteran Portuguese defender has rejoined Al Hilal’s pre-season preparations while negotiations over his hoped-for return to Barcelona remain unfinished. Cancelo continues to prioritise a move back to Camp Nou, but until Barcelona and Al Hilal reach a final agreement, he must continue fulfilling his obligations with the Saudi club. His return should not necessarily be interpreted as a change of heart but rather as a reflection of his professionalism. For now, he remains an Al Hilal player, and he wants to be respectful of that. Barcelona deal still alive Barcelona have remained confident they can complete Cancelo’s signing before the transfer window closes. Cancelo’s stance gives Barcelona some leverage because the 32-year-old has made his preference clear, but Al Hilal are under no obligation to accept terms that do not satisfy them. That explains why the operation has moved more slowly than Hansi Flick would ideally have wanted. Still waiting for Barcelona transfer. (Photo by Juan Manuel Serrano Arce/Getty Images) Cancelo’s return remains attractive because of the tactical flexibility he would provide. He can operate on either flank, move into midfield during possession and offer another creative outlet against teams defending deep. Barça know exactly what he brings to the table and how he can adapt to Hansi Flick’s system, making this a low-risk signing. His arrival would also provide important competition to Alejandro Balde, who is facing an important season at the Catalan club. Barcelona still have time on their side, but they will be keen to get the Cancelo deal over the line, and it remains to be seen how long it takes.