According to Portuguese newspaper Record (via MD), the Blaugrana club has advanced negotiations with Manchester City for the Portuguese right-back. In turn, the journalist Gianluigi Longari says that Joao Cancelo is getting closer and closer to Barcelona, it is not done yet, but the agreement is getting closer. However, Fabrizio Romano says there is no formal offer for the player, agreement not imminent.
Ideal Right-back?
Xavi Hernandez could be close to securing one of the most desired signings since the winter transfer window. He would be the 5th signing after the signings of Gundogan, Iñigo Martínez, Oriol Romeu and Vitor Roque. The latter could bring his arrival forward, depending on the outcome of the Copa Libertadores.
Record newspaper reports that Barça are close to signing the Manchester City RB. The information of the Portuguese media details that both the azulgrana club and the citizen would have very advanced negotiations for Cancelo to become a new culé player. Moreover, Xavi wanted his signing last January. However, the English club preferred to transfer him to Bayern Munchen. What is not detailed is whether it would be a definitive transfer or a loan with an option to buy. But most likely it would be a loan to fit his record in the club’s Financial Fair Play.
Cancelo is the preferred option for the azulgrana coach to reinforce his side. In addition, the departure of Ousmane Dembélé is about to be finalized, which would give the club a good income from Fair play, as his contract would free up 17 million euros. The final price of the clause is still being negotiated. His departure opens the door to signings of the level of Cancelo, if his arrival does not materialize, Barcelona would go for Ivan Fresneda.
