La Liga champions Barcelona have on Thursday announced the latest addition to the club’s first-team ranks. The player to have put pen to paper on terms with Hansi Flick’s squad? João Cancelo.
Defender Cancelo’s Camp Nou return has of course been on the cards for some time now. After the Portuguese shone during a loan stint in Barcelona’s colours over the 2nd half of last season, Deco and co. quickly set about making his signing permanent.
Negotiations rumbled on throughout the summer, as Cancelo’s then-employers, Al-Hilal, dragged their feet on sanctioning a free agent exit for a player with 12 months remaining on his contract.
After the 32-year-old made clear his absolute desire to take his talents back to Spain, though, the Saudi outfit ultimately caved.
Cancelo, in turn, made the trip to Catalunya’s capital earlier this week. And as alluded to above, on Thursday, his status as a permanent member of Hansi Flick’s defensive setup has been confirmed.
As per a statement across Barca’s website and social media platforms:
‘João Cancelo and FC Barcelona have reached an agreement for the Portuguese footballer to join the Club. The full-back arrives as a permanent transfer basis and signs as a Barça player until 30 June 2029.’
Conor Laird – GSFN
