Joao Cancelo’s future has taken another twist, with Al-Hilal including the Portuguese full-back in their squad numbers for the 2026/27 season despite Barcelona being close to completing his return to Catalonia.
According to SPORT, the Saudi club has assigned Cancelo the No.20 shirt, the same number he wore during his first spell with Al-Hilal and the one he also uses with the Portugal national team.
However, the inclusion of his name in the squad list does not necessarily mean he will remain in Saudi Arabia.
Barcelona are still working to complete a deal for the 32-year-old, with the transfer reportedly close to being finalised for around €10 million.
Barcelona close to completing Cancelo transfer
The agreement between Barcelona and Al-Hilal is understood to be practically complete, while Cancelo has already agreed personal terms with the Catalan club.
That agreement has been in place since the end of last season, when the Portuguese defender played an important role under Hansi Flick.
Cancelo made 23 appearances during that period, scoring twice and providing three assists. He also established himself as a regular starter as Alejandro Balde struggled with muscular problems.
His performances convinced Flick that bringing him back permanently would be a worthwhile move.
Despite the agreement being close, it must be remembered that the transfer has not yet been officially completed.
Fiscal and financial details have delayed the announcement, turning what should have been a straightforward operation into another prolonged transfer saga for the Blaugrana.
For now, sporting director Deco remains keen to complete the deal, while Flick continues to see Cancelo as an important addition to his squad.
So what happens now?
The Saudi club have already signed Mohammed Mahzari, with the player operating in the same position as Cancelo. That move suggests Al-Hilal are prepared for the possibility of losing the Portuguese defender.
Their main objective appears to be recovering the investment they made when they signed Cancelo from Manchester City.
That is why the Saudi club are demanding around €10 million from Barcelona, who are prepared to meet that figure for a player they already know well.
Cancelo understands Barcelona’s environment, has experience working under Flick and can provide cover on both sides of the defence.
However, for now, the Portuguese defender is still officially back with Al-Hilal.
Cancelo returned to training with the Saudi club on August 7 after completing his post-World Cup holiday, meaning he has already resumed work while waiting for his future to be resolved.
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