Did the Deal Collapse? A Last-Minute Snag Hits Cancelo's Barcelona Move
10 January 2026
Update on Cancelo's Barcelona Move
Barcelona delayed Joao Cancelo's medical examination for the second time, raising questions about completing the transfer with Al Hilal that had reached the final stages between the clubs.
The medical was first scheduled for Friday, then postponed to Saturday.
Sport cited official Barcelona sources confirming Cancelo will undergo the medical on Monday after the Spanish Super Cup, as broadcast via the Eight app.
The Portuguese defender would travel to Barcelona with the Barça squad after the Super Cup final.
Officials say the delay is logistical for the player, with no contractual barriers identified; the arrangement is a 100% loan until the season's end.
Cancelo is currently training solo in Lisbon, awaiting the final steps to complete the operation.
Next Steps
He will not join the Saudi trip or be with the squad before the Super Cup final; he is set to join teammates when training resumes on Tuesday.
Sniper Punchline 1: If transfers were a sniper duel, this one keeps moving like a moving target—thanks, calendar—your timing is immaculate.
Sniper Punchline 2: Barcelona’s transfer drama just earned a second round of medicals; apparently even the paperwork wants a warm-up before the headline act.