Three reasons why Joao Cancelo’s transfer to Barcelona makes sense

5 days ago 2

Barcelona have wasted little to no time in the January transfer window.

With defensive concerns mounting and injuries beginning to stretch the squad, the club moved decisively to secure the return of Joao Cancelo, a player who already knows the club, the league and the demands of playing at the highest level.

An agreement in principle is now in place, with only the official announcement pending.

At first glance, Cancelo’s arrival may appear slightly surprising because ever since Andreas Christensen was sidelined, Barcelona’s priority was a left-footed centre-back.

Instead, the club opted for a versatile full-back. However, when the decision is examined closely, Cancelo’s return is not only logical but arguably the smartest solution available to Hansi Flick and the sporting department.

Here are three key reasons why this move makes complete sense.

Cancelo opens up tactical options

Barcelona’s defensive structure has been under constant adjustment in recent weeks.

Cancelo could be a great coup for Barcelona. (Photo by Carlos Rodrigues/Getty Images)

With injuries and role changes forcing improvisation, Flick has often been left short of natural options in key positions, and Cancelo’s arrival immediately addresses this issue.

Barcelona urgently need depth at right-back, as Jules Kounde has been used heavily in that role because Eric Garcia has been redeployed as a centre-back and as a defensive midfielder.

Cancelo provides a natural alternative on the right, allowing Kounde to return to a more central role when needed.

On the left side, Cancelo also offers cover for Alejandro Balde. With Gerard Martin currently being used as a left-sided centre-back, Barcelona lacked a reliable backup at left-back.

Cancelo’s ability to operate comfortably on both flanks restores balance and flexibility.

Perhaps most importantly, Cancelo’s versatility frees up multiple players at once.

Gerard Martin can now focus on developing as a centre-back rather than filling in wide, while Kounde and Eric regain the option of playing in the heart of defence.

In a congested season, this kind of tactical flexibility is invaluable.

Cancelo’s commitment to Barcelona

Beyond the tactical side, Cancelo’s willingness to return under difficult financial conditions says a lot about his motivation.

Cancelo only wanted Barcelona. (Photo by FRANCK FIFE/AFP via Getty Images)

For this deal to materialise, sacrifices were required from all parties involved, including Al-Hilal, Barcelona and the player himself.

Cancelo was earning around €17 million per season, a figure well beyond Barcelona’s current limits. For the remaining half of the season, he stood to earn roughly €8.5 million tax-free.

By choosing Barcelona, he has accepted a dramatic pay cut, earning close to €3 million net for the same period. In practical terms, that represents a salary reduction of more than 50%.

His commitment played a crucial role in accelerating negotiations. Cancelo made it clear he wanted to leave in January, and while Inter Milan were also interested, his preference for Barcelona ultimately proved decisive.

The financial package offered by Inter was similar, yet Cancelo chose the sporting project and familiarity of Barcelona over other options.

A rare market opportunity

The January transfer window is notoriously difficult, especially when searching for quality defenders.

Cancelo knows Barcelona. (Photo by Yasser Bakhsh/Getty Images)

Barcelona explored several options, including experienced centre-backs like Stefan de Vrij, but cost and availability remained major obstacles.

Cancelo, by contrast, represents a low-risk, high-reward opportunity. His loan deal is structured to stay within the club’s strict financial ceiling, not exceeding €5 million.

That figure makes the operation far more viable than pursuing permanent transfers or expensive short-term fixes.

Equally important is the fact that Cancelo already understands Barcelona’s playing style.

There is no adaptation period, no learning curve and no uncertainty about whether he can handle the demands of the system.

For Flick, who has already been forced to use midfielders like Marc Casado at full-back in cup competitions, Cancelo’s arrival feels like a necessity rather than a luxury.

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