Inter Milan Eyes Cancelo: Winter Negotiations Hint at a Strategic Pivot

Inter Milan Initiates Talks to Sign Cancelo

Inter Milan has opened negotiations to sign Portuguese left-back Joao Cancelo from Al Hilal during the upcoming January window.

Transfer expert Fabrizio Romano reported that Cancelo is set to leave Al Hilal in January, with Inter probing loan terms and the possibility of a deal.

Romano noted that Barcelona and Juventus have contacted Al Hilal in the last 48 hours to inquire about Cancelo's status.

According to a program called Al-Middle, Simone Inzaghi's plan not to retain Cancelo in Al Hilal hinges on disciplinary concerns rather than footballing reasons.

Inzaghi reportedly believes Cancelo's off-field conduct could disrupt the dressing room of the leaders, making his future with the club more complicated.

Sources say Al Hilal would not block a departure if a satisfactory offer arrives to fund new signings, and Inter would prefer not to alter the eight-foreign-player limit in the squad.

Cancelo's recent injury against Al-Duhail in the AFC Champions League Elite sidelined him, leading to his removal from the squad and the registration of Brazilian Marcus Leonardo in his place. Since returning, Cancelo has appeared in four continental matches, scoring one goal and providing two assists.

As the window advances, Inter's interest remains, with a loan on the table rather than a permanent deal, and fans might joke that the saga could require a referee’s whistle and a stopwatch.

Note from the eyebrows-raising corner: if this move goes through, Inter could reshape the squad dynamics; if not, expect another chapter in the Cancelo clock-watch saga. Punchline time: 1) The transfer window opens, and Cancelo’s agent signs up for a calendar year of frequent flyer miles. 2) If Cancelo crosses as well as he crosses teams, the rumor mill might need a loan spell itself.