Manchester City will demand in excess of €30 million from Barcelona for defensive ace

The summer transfer deadline day saw FC Barcelona close multiple deals, both incoming and outgoing, one of which saw Joao Cancelo arrive on loan from Manchester City.

The 29-year-old right-back had been an express request from manager Xavi Hernandez due to the team’s woes in the position. And even though he had other clubs interested, the Portuguese international held on for Barça, much like his compatriot Joao Felix.

Now, it has been reported that Barcelona are already working things out with Atletico Madrid to sign Felix permanently, or at least extend his stay with another loan deal that includes a buy clause.

And, club president Joan Laporta has already confirmed that they intend to retain Cancelo’s services beyond the season as well.

Man City will not make it easy

However, according to a fresh update from German Bona of SPORT, Manchester City will not make it easy for Barcelona to sign Joao Cancelo permanently next summer.

As per the report, the Premier League champions will only negotiate a sale for the Portuguese international for a price in excess of €30 million.

That valuation could be an issue for the Blaugrana given their financial troubles, but there will be discussions held to decide whether to meet that figure or not, given what Cancelo offers.

After all, the 29-year-old has helped Barcelona address what has been a problematic position in the squad for several years. On top of that, he has also showcased his quality while operating in the left-back position.

Cancelo has Xavi’s absolute confidence

It must be noted that even though there seem to be some doubts about Joao Felix, Barcelona are completely convinced about Cancelo.

The report says that Xavi has absolute confidence in the 29-year-old Portuguese international, as seen by the fact that he is the player with the second-highest minutes in the squad (1715), only behind Ilkay Gundogan (1957).

In those minutes, Cancelo has also chipped in with three goals and two assists, highlighting the value he adds to the team.

But, negotiations with Manchester City could be tricky, especially if they are unwilling to budge from their demands.