Surprise Move: Al Hilal Dumps Cancelo From Asia’s Elite List, Sparks Inter Milan Link
3 January 2026
Background
Al Hilal shocked Joao Cancelo by excluding him from the Elite AFC Champions League squad, sidelining him from competition rosters this season.
La Gazzetta dello Sport reported that Cancelo was dropped from the Elite Asia list, removing him from all team rosters for the current campaign.
Current Developments
Earlier in September, Al Hilal had to omit the Portuguese defender from the domestic squad due to injury, with Brazilian Marcus Leonardo added in his place, though Leonardo remained registered for Asia before also being dropped.
The Italian publication notes this step signals Cancelo's likely move to Inter Milan in the January window amid ongoing negotiations with Al Hilal.
Gazzetta dello Sport adds that Inter expects Al Hilal to cooperate, potentially covering 60% of Cancelo's €15 million salary.
What Lies Ahead
Alternatively, the deal could involve a swap with Inter defenders Francesco Acerbi or Stefan de Vrij moving to Al Hilal, as coach Simone Inzaghi seeks a new defender in the winter market.
The sole hurdle remains Al Hilal's eight-foreign-player limit, which would require selling one player to complete the transfer.
Punchline 1: If the move happens, Cancelo’s paycheck will finally match the gloss on his hair. Punchline 2: And if he ends up at Inter, at least our jokes will be offside on purpose.
