Barcelona’s move to bring João Cancelo back has hit an unexpected setback, with tax-related complications surrounding his contract and transfer from Al Hilal delaying the deal. As a result, the transfer is now unlikely to be completed before August.
Despite the delay, new Barcelona manager Hansi Flick remains fully committed to signing the Portuguese defender. Flick reportedly sees Cancelo as a key addition because of his versatility, with the ability to operate effectively at both left-back and right-back.
The postponement also presents a major opportunity for Alejandro Balde. With Cancelo’s arrival temporarily on hold, Balde has the chance to cement his place as Barcelona’s undisputed first-choice left-back during the opening weeks of the season.
While the paperwork is taking longer than expected, Barcelona remain confident the deal will eventually go through, with Cancelo still considered an important part of Flick’s plans for the 2026/27 campaign.
