Romano confirms Barcelona's next target after Nico Williams blow

Cameron Smith

Updated: 18 Aug 2024 19:26 BST
3 min read

Nico Williams, Lamine Yamal, Barcelona — © IMAGO

Manchester City defender Joao Cancelo is in talks to re-join Barcelona this summer, according to Fabrizio Romano.

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Cancelo, 30, spent last season on loan at Camp Nou and he is keen to make the deal permanent before the 2024 summer transfer window closes.

The Portuguese international was excluded from Man City’s squad to face Chelsea on Sunday afternoon and he is expected to leave the club soon.

Transfer expert Romano provided an update on Cancelo’s future to CaughtOffside. “Discussions also continue over the possibility of bringing Joao Cancelo back to Barca,” he said.

“He’s high on their list and it will depend on Manchester City and Barca talks; not on the player as he’s clearly open to joining the club and returning to Spain. Talks will follow, so let’s see what happens.”

Cancelo’s last appearance for Man City came in a 2-1 defeat to Manchester United in January 2023. He played 42 games on loan at Barcelona last year, registering nine goals and assists.

Ilkay Gundogan latest

Meanwhile, Ilkay Gundogan is reportedly eager to leave Barcelona and the Germany international has even contacted Manchester City as he eyes a return to the Etihad Stadium.

© IMAGO - Ilkay Gundogan could leave Barcelona this summer

That is according to Spanish outlet La TdT (via Sport), who have reported that Gundogan has reached out to Man City officials in order to gauge the possibility of returning to the club this summer.

Pep Guardiola’s side signed Mateo Kovacic to replace Gundogan last summer, although the German’s goal-scoring exploits were certainly missed on occasions during the 2023-24 campaign.

Gundogan made 51 appearances during his debut season at Camp Nou, scoring five goals and providing 14 assists in all competitions.

The 33-year-old has one year left on his current Barcelona contract, while his Estimated Transfer Value (ETV) stands at €26.5 million.

Barcelona have signed Dani Olmo from RB Leipzig so far this summer, although they were unable to strike an agreement for Athletic Club winger Nico Williams.