Barcelona have lacked an incisive right-back for several years now. Sergino Dest, Sergi Roberto, and Nelson Semedo were some of the club’s attempts to find a solution, but none came good.
Joao Cancelo, in a span of three starts for the club so far, has already created more excitement than the aforementioned names.
The 29-year-old has what it takes to make the right-back spot his own in Catalonia. However, he has arrived at the club only on a season-long loan with no option to buy.
Barcelona hope for Man City to be generous in negotiations
Though Cancelo has only been at the club for a matter of weeks, Barcelona already see themselves interested in making his signing permanent next summer.
The only problem on that front is the financial aspect, for the Blaugranas are neck-deep in fiscal troubles. Needless to say, they can not afford to shell out a significant transfer fee for the right-back.
According to reports from Fernando Polo, those close to Cancelo state that he can leave Manchester City permanently next summer if Barcelona agree to pay €25 million with variables.
Considering that the player has a contract until 2027 in place with Pep Guardiola’s side, that figure does not appear absurd.
No way back to City
Despite having scored two goals and provided one assist in his first four games for Barcelona, it is clear that the Premier League champions are not interested in his services.
Cancelo does not see eye to eye with Pep Guardiola, reportedly for behavioural and attitude issues. Moreover, City see his defensive contributions to be slightly sub-par.
The defender has spoken openly about his desire to stay at Barcelona, and it appears that the club sit on the same boat. All that remains to be seen is if they can reach an agreement with City over a transfer fee in June.
