They reveal the real reason that keeps Joao Cancelo away from Barça

For several days now, the name of Joao Cancelo has been strongly linked with a return to Barça. The Portuguese player already played on loan at Camp Nou for one season and left very positive impressions. His versatility, his commitment, and his ability to adapt to the Barça system allowed him to win the fans' affection from the very first moment.

Despite that good memory, his loan ended and he is now playing for Al Hilal in Saudi Arabia. Cancelo arrived there last summer with the idea of ending his career in a more comfortable environment and with a big contract. However, Barça's need to strengthen the full-back positions has put his name back in the spotlight.

Deco wants Joao Cancelo, but Barça can't lose control

At Barça there is a clear conviction: Joao Cancelo fits like a glove because of his profile. He can play on both flanks, adapt to different roles, and give rest to both Koundé and Balde. In addition, his experience at the elite level fits with a team that competes every week in big venues.

That's why Deco has put him fully on his agenda. The sporting director, who already backed his arrival in 2023, wants him back and has started talks with Al Hilal. The objective was to explore a formula that would allow a manageable deal in January, preferably a loan.

The real reason that is blocking the signing: salary and cost sharing

This is where the big problem appears, and it is strictly financial. Barça want Al Hilal to pay 50% of Joao Cancelo's salary during the loan, something the Saudi club is not willing to accept. In Saudi Arabia they believe that the player's wages are high and that it doesn't make sense to assume such a large share if the footballer leaves.

In addition, Deco has also asked the player for a significant pay cut to make his registration easier and balance the financial limit. That is where the second clash arises: Joao Cancelo, with a high and stable contract in Saudi Arabia, is not willing to reduce it drastically. In a negotiation like this, if the salary doesn't move, everything else is blocked.

With the deal cooling down, Barça will have to look at other options in the market. Flick needs a full-back who can compete and rotate, because the schedule requires having two reliable pieces on each flank. If Cancelo doesn't accept the conditions, the sporting management will have to go for a different profile.