Barcelona retain 30-year-old star as priority for key defensive position

Much of the chatter around Barcelona’s transfer policy this summer has revolved around Nico Williams and Dani Olmo – two of the club’s top targets in the attacking department.

However, Barça remain equally committed to reinforcing their ranks in the defensive unit, with the club desperately requiring a new right-back.

Barcelona retain Cancelo as top right-back target

Transfer expert Fabrizio Romano has offered a fresh update on Barcelona’s transfer plans, highlighting Joao Cancelo as the club’s priority in the right-back position.

Cancelo spent the 2023/24 season on loan at Barça. He started the season well but his performances were highly criticised during much of the second half.

Nevertheless, Barcelona have retained interest in Cancelo, who is unlikely to continue at Manchester City and is looking for a new club this summer.

Barcelona are exploring an opportunity to convince Man City to once again sanction a season-long loan deal for the Portuguese international.

Time is running out for Barcelona (Photo by FRANCK FIFE/AFP via Getty Images)

Intense competition from European clubs

Convincing Man City, though, could prove to be difficult, especially considering the fact that there are numerous other clubs ready to sign the defender this summer.

Interestingly, Cancelo’s former clubs Juventus and Inter Milan have both sounded out a potential move for the right-back this summer.

Even Saudi Arabia is keen on the services of the former SL Benfica starlet, though the player has rejected those advances.

For now, the only bright spot for Barcelona is the fact that Cancelo, for his part, is ready to wait for them to make a move.

However, time is running out and sooner or later, the Catalan outfit must propose an official offer, if they are to bring back the Portuguese international this summer.