Joao Cancelo Called to Join Al Hilal for Pre-season
July 28, 2026 · Portugal
Joao Cancelo, currently on loan by Barcelona, has been called up to join Al Hilal's pre-season camp while negotiations for a permanent move back to Barcelona continue. Cancelo showed a strong desire to return to the Catalan club.
Joao Cancelo Called to Join Al Hilal for Pre-season
Why this is important
Joao Cancelo's return to Barcelona will be an important step in strengthening their squad, especially after his significant contribution during his loan spell. Cancelo has demonstrated his ability to bring creativity and a new dimension to Barcelona's game, which is much needed in domestic and European competitions. Apart from that, the success of these negotiations will also reflect Barcelona's strategy in utilizing the transfer market to strengthen their team.
Background
Joao Cancelo, defender from Portugal, previously spent two seasons in the Saudi Pro League before joining Barcelona on loan. While at Barcelona, he managed to show impressive performances, making him the main target for the Catalan club to acquire permanently in this summer's transfer window.
Main Points
- Joao Cancelo Called to Join Al Hilal for Pre-season.
- Joao Cancelo, currently on loan by Barcelona, has been called up to join Al Hilal's pre-season camp while negotiations for a permanent move back to Barcelona continue.
- Barcelona defensive target called up for pre-season by current club as transfer talks continue - Yahoo Sports.
Since the start of the summer transfer window, Barcelona have been trying to bring Cancelo back permanently, and currently those talks are still ongoing. According to a report from Mundo Deportivo, Cancelo has been instructed to report to Al Hilal's pre-season camp taking place in Austria on July 29, while negotiations regarding his possible move back to Barcelona continue.
Cancelo himself wants to return to Barcelona and continue his career wearing the Blaugrana jersey after he managed to show excellent performance last season. Hansi Flick also hopes to have Cancelo available during training in England, although the coach understands that this process may require patience.
Jorge Mendes, Cancelo's super agent, is now trying to secure an offer from Barcelona that Al Hilal can accept. The Saudi club has asked Mendes to bring a suitable proposal as Cancelo still has one year left on his contract. This situation seems to be moving slowly in a better direction for Barcelona. Al Hilal is now willing to listen to offers and will not stand in the player's way if a suitable offer comes in.
Their new sporting leadership has agreed to a possible sale, especially after Cancelo expressed his desire to leave. Cancelo has not been part of the Saudi club's sporting plans for some time, but they are desperate to get a decent fee to let him go this summer.
From Barcelona's side, Cancelo's return will strengthen their left-back position. Currently, Barcelona has Alejandro Balde, who has not fully developed into the player they expected. Cancelo offers a different option compared to Balde. However, the main issue is financial. Barcelona cannot let the player's desire to return force them into an offer that is detrimental to their overall squad planning.
With one year remaining on his contract at Al Hilal, Barcelona can play patiently to get a more profitable deal. It is hoped that Cancelo will soon return to wearing the Blaugrana jersey.
What happened next
Cancelo is expected to fulfill his obligations with Al Hilal during their pre-season camp in Austria until August 3, while negotiations with Barcelona continue. If the agreement is reached, Barcelona will get a player who has proven to be able to adapt well and make a positive contribution. However, if negotiations fail, Cancelo may have to continue his career in the Saudi Pro League, which could affect his future career development.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is involved in Joao Cancelo's transfer negotiations?
Joao Cancelo, Barcelona and Al Hilal are involved in this transfer negotiation.
Where has Joao Cancelo previously played?
Joao Cancelo previously played in the Saudi Pro League before joining Barcelona.
Why does Joao Cancelo want to rejoin Barcelona?
Cancelo wants to return to Barcelona because he managed to show excellent performance last season.
What is the current status of Joao Cancelo's transfer deal?
Negotiations regarding Cancelo's possible move back to Barcelona are still ongoing.
When will Joao Cancelo join Al Hilal for pre-season?
Joao Cancelo was instructed to report to Al Hilal's pre-season camp which took place in Austria on July 29.
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