Exciting and long-awaited news for Culés fans: FC Barcelona appear to be on the verge of signing talented Portuguese right-back João Cancelo. According to recent reports, the Catalan club have reached an agreement with Manchester City to loan the player out, a strategic move that both Barça fans and their coach, Xavi Hernández, have been waiting for.
According to famous transfer journalist Fabrizio Romano, negotiations between FC Barcelona and Manchester City have reached their climax. The documents required to complete the transfer process have already been exchanged between both clubs and all essential points of the agreement have been finalized. The news comes as a relief to Xavi Hernández, who has expressed interest in having João Cancelo in his squad since arriving on the Camp Nou bench.
João Cancelo to Barcelona, let’s go! Manchester City and Barça finally exchange documents to sign the contract today 🚨🔵🔴 #FCB
João ready to travel to Barcelona tonight.
Loan agreement with purchase option clause included.
…it was only a matter of time. 🇵🇹 pic.twitter.com/86HuwlwxLd
— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) August 28, 2023
The character of João Cancelo needs no introduction. With his versatility on the right flank, solid defensive skills and outstanding attacking skills, the Portugal international fits perfectly into FC Barcelona’s game philosophy. His ability to join the attack and create chances in the last third of the field is exactly what Xavi is looking for to give his team extra momentum on the attacking front.
A perfect winger for Barça
Cancelo’s arrival could also mean an enlargement of Barcelona’s squad. His presence will allow the team to switch between different tactical schemes, giving Xavi the flexibility to adapt to different game situations and opponents.