Lightning in the Transfer Window: Cancelo Nears Exit from Al Hilal, Europe in His Sights
1 January 2026
Cancelo's uncertain future at Al Hilal
Portuguese press reports have surfaced about a new indicator signaling Joao Cancelo's impending departure from Al Hilal this winter.
European interest grows
His future with the side remains uncertain as Cancelo reportedly wishes to leave the Saudi club and head back to Europe, especially since he's not registered domestically and is only registered for Asian competition.
Portuguese daily A Bola reported today that besides Italian interest from clubs like Inter Milan and Juventus, Barcelona too is keen to sign the international full-back.
The paper noted that the Italian coach Simone Inzaghi, head of the team, does not want to register the player locally, signaling a likely departure for Cancelo, who has appeared in only six matches this season.
Cancelo had suffered an injury that sidelined him for nearly three months, which allowed his registration to Asia only.
Despite Al Hilal's injury woes and a shortage of options in several positions, Inzaghi does not seem intent on utilizing the Portuguese defender, bringing him closer to a possible exit. Punchline: If Cancelo moves, expect a plot twist bigger than a last-minute goal.
