Cancelo’s Barca Return Gains Momentum: A Quiet Transfer Nearthe Finish Line
6 January 2026
Transfer Nears Completion
The deal now appears close after the Portuguese full-back's sacrifice.
Joao Cancelo's move from Al Hilal to Barcelona during the current winter transfer window is closer than ever.
According to the Spanish newspaper Sport, talks between Barcelona and Al Hilal have progressed to an advanced stage, to the point that Cancelo has agreed to reclaim his number 2 jersey at the Catalan club.
The jersey had remained vacant since Cancelo's departure, and no other player has claimed it in the dressing room, so there should be no issue reclaiming it.
The deal reportedly includes a salary of 5 million euros for the remainder of the season, forcing Cancelo to halve his wages — a gesture seen as essential if he is to wear Barca's kit again.
Cancelo played 42 matches for Barcelona in his first spell, scoring 4 goals and providing 5 assists.
Notably, he lined up 24 times at left-back and 16 times at right-back, with the rest coming as an advanced right winger; he never played as a center-back.
Past Barca Tenures
During his first stint, Cancelo showed his versatility and contributed on both flanks as well as in midfield positions when required.
Punchline: If Cancelo nails this, Barca fans will finally be able to pronounce his name without a coaching session.
Punchline 2: And if the move stalls, at least the winter window gave us more suspense than a goal-line review in a cup final.
