Joao Cancelo returns to Al-Hilal as Barcelona transfer stalls

Joao Cancelo has returned to Al-Hilal training after the Saudi club registered him for the new season, with Barcelona still working to complete a permanent transfer.

Joao Cancelo has returned to Al-Hilal training as Barcelona continue negotiations to secure his permanent return to Camp Nou.

According to GOAL, the Saudi club has registered the Portugal international for the new season and handed him the No. 20 shirt, despite ongoing discussions over his transfer.

Cancelo spent the previous season with Barcelona and reportedly wants to remain in Spain. The versatile full-back has already given his approval for a return, but financial and administrative issues have delayed the agreement between the clubs.

Al-Hilal are also seeking to protect their financial interests after signing Cancelo from Manchester City in 2024. Reports indicate the Saudi side are looking for a fee in the region of €10 million before allowing the 32-year-old defender to leave.

With Barcelona continuing to pursue the deal, Cancelo’s return to Al-Hilal training provides another twist in the transfer saga.

The defender remains contracted to the Saudi club, and both sides now face pressure to resolve the situation as the transfer window progresses.