Portugal defender Joao Cancelo has returned to Barcelona on a permanent three-year contract after mutually terminating his deal with Saudi Pro League club Al-Hilal.
The 32-year-old joined Al-Hilal from Manchester City in 2024 but spent last season on loan at Barcelona, helping the Catalan giants win the La Liga title.
After agreeing to leave Al-Hilal, Cancelo became a free agent before completing his return to Barcelona.
“It’s my dream. I’m where I want to be and I am very happy,” Cancelo said. “I like the club, I identify with it. I feel loved here and I promise to give everything for this club.”
Cancelo first moved to Spain in 2014 when he joined Valencia from Benfica on loan before making the transfer permanent.
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He subsequently played for Inter Milan on loan, followed by permanent spells at Juventus and Manchester City. He also spent part of the 2022-23 season on loan at Bayern Munich.
The defender first joined Barcelona on loan from Manchester City for the 2023-24 campaign. His latest move marks his third spell at the club and his first permanent transfer to the Spanish side.
Barcelona have also strengthened their squad with the signing of Spain midfielder Rodri from Manchester City for a reported £65 million.
Hansi Flick’s side have further added wingers Anthony Gordon and Karim Adeyemi during the summer transfer window, while Ferran Torres has moved to Paris Saint-Germain and veteran striker Robert Lewandowski has joined MLS club Chicago Fire.
