Aballou: A site made by fans, for fans

Mystery Surrounds Joao Cancelo as Al Hilal Faces Winter Transfer Buzz

6 January 2026

Mystery Surrounds Joao Cancelo as Al Hilal Faces Winter Transfer Buzz
Cancelo's cryptic Instagram post fuels rumors about his future at Al Hilal.

Rising Speculations Surround Cancelo's Future

The Portuguese right-back Joao Cancelo has intensified the mystery surrounding his future with Al Hilal as transfer chatter grows ahead of the winter window.

Several clubs are linked, led by Barcelona, which, according to global reports, has submitted a bid to sign him this window, while Inter Milan are also in pursuit.

Cancelo posted a cryptic message on Instagram hinting at people who dislike you for not hearing your side of the story.

Saudi reports had suggested that Italian coach Simone Inzaghi had given Al Hilal the green light to part ways with Cancelo, with domestic registration not firmly tied to him after an injury earlier this season kept him out for around three months.

Meanwhile, his agent jokes that the only thing Cancelo is negotiating is which Netflix series to binge this weekend.

Author

Avatar

Emma Amme

I am Emma Amme, an English sports journalist born in 1998. Passionate about astronomy, contemporary dance, and handcrafted woodworking, I share my sensitive view of sports.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is fueling the Cancelo saga at Al Hilal?

Transfer rumors linking him with Barcelona and Inter Milan alongside a cryptic Instagram post fueling speculation.

What did reports say about Inzaghi and Cancelo?

Saudi reports indicated Inzaghi gave Al Hilal the green light to part ways with Cancelo, with domestic registration not clearly tied due to prior injury.

What could happen in the near term?

A potential move in the winter window is possible, though negotiations and registrations will determine the outcome.