The current situation of FC Barcelona
At a decisive moment in the transfer market, FC Barcelona is faced with an unexpected challenge that may alter their summer plans. Joan Laporta, the club’s president, and Hansi Flick, the German coach, are facing the prospect of losing one of their most coveted targets: Manchester City’s Portuguese right-back Joao Cancelo.
Cancelo, a key player in his strategy
Since the start of the season, the Barcelona team had identified Cancelo as an essential reinforcement to improve the defense, an area that has been problematic in recent years. His transfer last year proved fruitful, and the club hoped to repeat the operation with a similar offer. However, the situation has changed dramatically.
Manchester City’s Posture
Manchester City have taken a firm stance on Cancelo’s future. Last year, the English club opted to sell him without getting a financial return, but they are now looking to recoup some of the investment made in him in 2019, when they signed him for €65 million. Thus, their intention is to ensure a profitable sale.
Al-Hilal’s offer
Al-Hilal has entered the scene with a proposal of 40 million euros for Cancelo, an amount that has aroused the interest of the player. This has led Cancelo to reconsider his option at Barça, bearing in mind that the Saudi offer would provide him with a much higher salary.
The implications for Barça
The potential loss of Cancelo would be a major setback for Barça, who must look for immediate alternatives to strengthen their defensive line. Jules Koundé currently occupies the right-back position, but Flick must explore both internal and external options to deal with that eventuality.
Possible alternatives
One of the promises of the youngster, Héctor Fort, could be an internal solution, although the club is also considering external signings. Marc Pubill, currently at Almeria, is one of the names that has emerged recently, although his incorporation would require an investment that Barça would prefer to avoid.
An uncertain future
With the transfer market about to close, FC Barcelona is in a compromised position. Decisions made now will be crucial to keeping the team competitive in what promises to be a demanding season. At the same time, Cancelo’s trajectory is becoming clearer, and it seems that his path is headed away from the Camp Nou.