João Cancelo Returns to Barcelona on Loan from Al-Hilal

Barcelona have secured the return of Portuguese full-back João Cancelo on a loan deal from Saudi Pro League side Al-Hilal until the end of the season, according to reliable transfer expert Fabrizio Romano.

The agreement, confirmed on January 5, 2026, sees Barcelona paying €4 million to cover part of Cancelo's salary, with no loan fee involved. The 31-year-old defender, who previously spent the 2023-24 campaign on loan at Camp Nou from Manchester City, made his preference for a Barcelona comeback clear from the outset.

Cancelo impressed during his earlier stint, registering four goals and five assists in 42 appearances across all competitions. His versatility to operate on both flanks and contribute offensively made him a key asset under then-manager Xavi Hernández.

Despite Al-Hilal having a verbal agreement in place with Inter Milan for a similar loan arrangement, Cancelo held firm on his desire to rejoin the Catalan club. Inter's proposal reportedly included potential player exchanges, but the player's priority shifted the negotiations in Barcelona's favor.

The move addresses defensive needs for Hansi Flick's side, particularly following long-term injuries in the backline. Barcelona utilized salary cap space freed up by Andreas Christensen's absence to facilitate the registration.Cancelo joined Al-Hilal in a permanent transfer from Manchester City in 2024 but sought a return to European football ahead of the 2026 World Cup. Official announcement and medical tests are expected imminently.