Official: Barcelona target left out of Man City squad

Barcelona proceeds to scavenge the transfer market for promising opportunities to exploit.

While financial frailties have proven to be a significant roadblock thus far, the impending departures of Kessie to Al-Ahli, and Ousmane Dembele to PSG are likely to pave the way for new signings.

The name of Joao Cancelo has been linked significantly with the Catalan giants over the past few days, as Barcelona insist on signing a right-back to beef up their ranks.

Cancelo on the exit ramp

The Portuguese international has been placed on the market by Manchester City due to a fallout with Pep Guardiola.

The player was sent out on loan to Bayern Munich right in the middle of last season and is seen as having minimal chances of continuing with the Cityzens this campaign.

Now the former Barcelona coach has already made it clear that he “could go wherever he wanted, even to United.”

As Manchester City have officially commenced their season by locking horns against Arsenal in the Community Shield, Cancelo has been dropped from the squad, which is indicative of the player’s imminent exit and bodes well for Barcelona, who have already declared great interest in the player.

Barcelona leading the race

According to recent reports, Cancelo has already agreed personal terms with Barcelona.

Ivan Fresneda has been pushed for signing by a number of board members, including new director Deco, but Xavi has insisted on Cancelo.

It is now up to Manchester City and Barcelona to determine how the deal will be negotiated.

Acquiring Cancelo would allow Barcelona to make up for Dembele’s absence, and strengthen their squad ahead of next season in a variety of positions.

However, the 29-year-old has also reportedly been approached by Saudi Arabia, which could prompt the player to change his mind, especially if the Catalan giants delay the transaction.

Read also: Why Barcelona need to sign Cancelo urgently