‘Everything points’ to Barcelona landing €70m star after Clasico catastrophe

Robin Bairner

• 6 Apr 2023 14:50 BST
• 3 min read

“Everything points” to Barcelona signing Joao Cancelo from Manchester City this summer, according to a report from Sport.

Head coach Xavi was left unhappy with Barca’s performance against Real Madrid in El Clasico on Wednesday as they slumped to a 4-0 defeat at home that saw them tumble out of the Copa del Rey.

Xavi spoke after the game about how his side lacked maturity in their play and it is believed that a reliable right-back would aid them tremendously. It is a position that they have been seeking to strengthen all season.

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Sport reports that Barcelona are now focused on landing Joao Cancelo from Man City.

The Spaniard is presently on loan at Bayern Munich, but the Bundesliga side have already made clear that it is not their intention to sign him on a permanent basis. Although they have changed coach, it would take a staggering turnaround under Thomas Tuchel for Cancelo to stay in Bavaria.

It is added that it is “impossible” for Cancelo, a player who has a €70 million buy-out clause for Bayern, to remain at City.

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Why Barcelona want Cancelo

Barca are said to appreciate Cancelo because of his versatility – he can play on either wing – and quality.

While there are doubts over his attitude and character, Barcelona are willing to take the risk.

Of course, Financial Fair Play (FFP) is a threat to the deal. Barca need to make €200m in cuts before the end of June and are also seeking to conclude a transfer to bring Lionel Messi back to the club.

Cancelo’s representatives are said to have assured Barca that the player is willing to make an effort financially – provided he is furnished with a long-term commitment by the club.

It is added that it will only become clear in May whether Barcelona can afford this deal, but with negotiations with Villarreal’s Juan Foyth “practically impossible”, Cancelo looks like the surer bet to be the club’s right-back next season.