"The transfer isn't finalized yet, but I'll be happy if it happens" – Hansi Flick confirms talks with João Cancelo
Steven Perez
Dailysports's expert
Al Hilal defender João Cancelo is on the verge of returning to Barcelona, but according to Barça head coach Hansi Flick, the transfer has not yet been completed.
Details: At the pre-match press conference ahead of the Spanish Super Cup semifinal, Barcelona manager Hansi Flick confirmed he is expecting the Portuguese defender João Cancelo to join the squad, though an official agreement has yet to be reached.
"Cancelo will strengthen our play on the flanks and further up the pitch," Flick said. "Once the transfer is completed, I'll be very happy because he will give us more options. He's a quality player," the coach added.
In the meantime, Barcelona, still without Cancelo, will play the Spanish Super Cup semifinal against Athletic Bilbao tomorrow, January 7, with kick-off scheduled for 20:00 CET.
It’s worth noting that the Portuguese defender has made just six appearances for Al Hilal this season, scoring one goal and providing two assists. Transfermarkt currently values him at €10 million.
Reminder: Lamine Yamal missed Barcelona’s training session ahead of the Spanish Super Cup semifinal.
