Man City full-back will play for Barcelona next season except for any late U-turns – report

Journalist Matteo Moretto has reported via Relevo that except for any last-minute changes, Manchester City full-back Joao Cancelo will join Barcelona this summer.

Barcelona have long been in the race to sign Cancelo before the end of the summer transfer window and while several possibilities have already been explored, it is said that they are now ready to submit their first formal bid for the defender.

Considering the current state of finances, Barça plan to use the money they received from Ousmane Dembele’s sale for this operation and a loan move with a purchase option has been formulated for the defender.

Joan Laporta and Jorge Mendes personally involved

Barcelona president Joan Laporta and super agent Jorge Mendes are on excellent terms. The two have catered quite a few deals in the past and it is said that the duo is personally involved in Cancelo’s operation.

This comes after Xavi insisted on the need of signing an experienced right-back.

The manager was once again forced to use Ronald Araujo on the right side of the defence against Getafe.

While the Uruguayan has been decent at his very best in the position, the team does need a seasoned full-back to cover the spot.

Mendes pushing another Portuguese

Moretto writes that apart from the Cancelo deal, Mendes is also insisting Barcelona sign, Joao Felix. The super agent understands the deal is complex considering Atletico Madrid’s demands, but he will try until the very end.

Lastly, it must be noted that to sign for Barcelona, Cancelo will have to take a significant salary cut and since the initial deal is a temporary move, expect Barcelona to ask City to pay a part of his token for the season.