Transfer Centre

Barcelona 're-open talks over Joao Cancelo deal'

By Carter White | 12 August 2023

Barcelona are reportedly in talks with Manchester City to sign defender Joao Cancelo, with the Portugal international set for a move away from the Etihad Stadium this summer.

Barcelona have reportedly reopened talks with Manchester City over the signing of defender Joao Cancelo in this summer's transfer window.

The 29-year-old had a difficult 2022-23 term on the blue half of Manchester, being sent out on loan to Bayern Munich for the second half of the campaign as his parent club won a historic treble.

Cancelo did not miss out on silverware completely, however, with the Portugal international helping the Bavarian giants to another Bundesliga title ahead of fierce rivals Borussia Dortmund.

The full-back featured 15 times in the Bundesliga for Thomas Tuchel's men - 11 of which came from the start - scoring a single goal and providing four assists during that time.

Bayern Munich coach Thomas Tuchel reacts on July 26, 2023 © Reuters

According to Italian journalist Fabrizio Romano, Barcelona are in active discussions with Manchester City over the transfer of Cancelo to Spain this summer.

It is understood that Barca have made the right-back a priority signing in this transfer window as they look to regain their La Liga title this term despite the expected challenge of Carlo Ancelotti's Real Madrid.

Cancelo still has four years left on his current deal at the Etihad, meaning that Man City are in a good position to earn a considerable amount from any potential sale to Xavi's men.

Despite featuring in all three of the Citizens' pre-season fixtures, the former Juventus man did not make Pep Guardiola's squad for their Premier League opener against Burnley on Friday night.

A brace from Erling Haaland and a late Rodri strike secured a comfortable 3-0 win for the visitors at Turf Moor, with Rico Lewis and Kyle Walker being the recognised full-backs which started the contest.

Manchester City's Erling Haaland celebrates scoring against Burnley on August 11, 2023 © Reuters

The report claims that negotiations between Barca and City will continue in the coming days, with the Spanish side hopeful of completing a deal for a player that they have admired for a long time.

Xavi's men are in need of fresh options on the right side of their defence, especially considering that Barca are looking to offload out-of-favour full-back Sergino Dest this summer.

It is understood that Bayern had an option in their loan agreement for Cancelo to sign the Portugal international for £62m, however Tuchel's men have decided not to re-sign the player permanently for the 2023-24 term.

Man City will be looking to add another trophy to their ever-growing list of successes when they face Europa League winners Sevilla in the UEFA Super Cup on Wednesday night.