Manchester City defender, on loan at Barcelona, João Cancelo, has explicitly stated that he would like to remain at Barcelona next season.
The Catalan giants brought him in on loan with the hopes of making a buying decision on the player after his loan season. The sensations are good, but the club’s pockets are stating otherwise.
Moves are being made to provide the next coach with enough funds for their summer transfer dealings. They are also considering avenues to retain the Portugal defender, who is versatile enough to play on either defensive wing.
The player’s willingness will not be a problem for them, per his latest comments to the media. Speaking to Italian outlet, Gazzetta dello Sport, Cancelo said, “I was lucky enough to play for only big teams. I am proud of my career because nobody has ever gifted me anything. I’ve conquered everything with sacrifice.”
“I know nothing yet [about the future], but I’d like to stay here. I grew up watching Ronaldinho’s Barcelona. He’s my idol. I am proud to wear this jersey, and there aren’t other clubs I can join, right?”
The Blaugrana will have to fork out around £25 million to sign Cancelo permanently, which, if they do, will affect their squad planning for 2024/25. This, of course, can be achieved with more investment in the club and the sale of a couple of players.
Reports state that Barcelona have £13 million and are likely to convince Manchester City, who are ready to offload Cancelo.
Meanwhile, the club’s president, Joan Laporta, was pictured meeting with the agent of Liverpool forward Luis Diaz on Monday.
El Heraldo de Colombia says Laporta met with Carlos Van Strahlen, Diaz’s agent, but the asking price from Liverpool turned the meeting – which was going well – sour.
The Reds want €140 million for the Colombian winger, which is a figure many people will not willingly pay, much less Barcelona with their financial problems.
To help them in the transfer market, especially with the signing of Cancelo which they consider an absolute necessity, they intend to make a sale from the central defence. Clement Lenglet, Eric Garcia and Chadi Riad who are all on loan could make way for Cancelo and a new forward.
Meanwhile, they are hoping to go far in the UEFA Champions League because it will provide a good payout for them which they will put into squad building.
