"Here We Go!" João Cancelo Set for Stunning Return to FC Barcelona in €4M Deal

In a major turn of events, FC Barcelona is set to reunite with Portuguese full-back João Cancelo. Currently playing in the Saudi Pro League for Al-Hilal under manager Simone Inzaghi, the defender is reportedly on the verge of returning to Catalonia. While Cancelo previously enjoyed a successful loan spell at Barça during the 2023-24 season while still under contract with Manchester City, this time, the Spanish giants are pushing for a permanent transfer.

The primary catalyst for this signing is the season-ending injury to Andreas Christensen. With the Danish defender sidelined for the remainder of the campaign, Barça’s board identified Cancelo as the ideal reinforcement. However, the club has maintained a firm stance: they will not overspend or engage in a bidding war. This position was made clear during the initial rounds of negotiations with the Saudi side.

Transfer expert Fabrizio Romano has officially given his iconic "Here we go!" stamp on the deal, confirming that both Barcelona and Al-Hilal have reached a definitive agreement for the player’s return in 2026.

The operation is reportedly valued at €4 million for the permanent transfer. Al-Hilal agreed to the fee to offload one of the highest salaries in their squad, despite their massive initial investment in the Portuguese international. On Cancelo’s end, his desire to return to elite European football played a crucial role in lowering the financial hurdles and adapting his wages to Barça’s current financial reality.

Cancelo’s Track Record at Camp Nou

During his 2023-24 stint under Xavi Hernández, Cancelo was a pillar of the starting XI. His stats speak for themselves:

• Appearances: 42 matches

• Direct Goal Contributions: 4 goals and 5 assists

• Minutes Played: 3,322

FC Barcelona’s Strategy for Cancelo

It is clear that the Portuguese full-back is arriving to fill a backup role. Jules Koundé remains the undisputed starter, having performed at a world-class level under Hansi Flick. This leaves João Cancelo as the primary "Plan B" should the Frenchman be unavailable due to injuries or suspensions. This move addresses a critical need for the Catalan side: increasing squad depth at right-back. By bringing in a player of Cancelo’s caliber, Barcelona ensures they maintain an elite, high-profile roster capable of competing across all fronts.

His ability to dominate the wings and his comfort within Barcelona’s possession-based philosophy made him a fan favorite. Now, his return is seen as a strategic boost for Hansi Flick’s squad as they chase silverware in LaLiga, the Champions League, the Copa del Rey, and the Spanish Super Cup.