UEFA Champions League
Joao Cancelo has decided to put an end to his adventure in Saudi Arabia and leave the ambitious Al Hilal as soon as possible, according to sources close to the Portuguese footballer. Barring a surprise, the Portuguese will return to Europe, where several clubs are tracking him.
The right-back, former player of Barcelona, has indicated to his circle that he does not plan to extend his time at Al Hilal and firmly prioritizes a return to competitive European football.
The Portuguese believes his performance has suffered away from the continental spotlight and seeks to regain immediate top-level prominence. Especially knowing that the 2026 World Cup is just around the corner.
Barcelona, well aware of Joao Cancelo's qualities from his recent spell, is among the clubs closely monitoring his current contract situation. Today, Juventus emerges as the favorite to lead the race for Joao Cancelo, supported by their previous link and established mutual knowledge.
Joao Cancelo, shared priority between Barcelona and Juventus
Barcelona's sporting officials value Joao Cancelo's versatility, offensive prowess, and his internationally proven experience in big stages.
In Turin, Juventus highlights Joao Cancelo's ability to adapt quickly and provide sustained decisive tactical depth.
The Portuguese's past in Italy facilitates a smooth understanding with Juventus' technical structure and accelerates recent discreet discussions.
Al Hilal accepts that Joao Cancelo will not continue with the Saudi project and is preparing for an orderly short-term agreed departure.
Joao Cancelo's circle insists that the priority is to return to competing weekly in leagues of the highest European standards.
Joao Cancelo to leave Al Hilal
This scenario reshapes the full-back market and positions Joao Cancelo as one of the most coveted pieces of the summer.
There is a consensus within Barcelona about his immediate impact, though the operation requires additional immediate financial adjustments and responsible prudent planning.
Meanwhile, Juventus is evaluating flexible contractual formulas to bring in Joao Cancelo with sustained extended competitive budgetary balance.

Close sources assure that Joao Cancelo is in open discussions with both sports projects without finalizing his definitive immediate decision yet.
The player has also publicly ruled out staying at Al Hilal, prioritizing upcoming long-standing sporting and family reasons in Europe.
Joao Cancelo believes his Saudi period has run its course and now pursues demanding challenges to enhance his established international professional career.
European clubs are vying for Joao Cancelo, with Barcelona and Juventus the two main suitors for the Portuguese. An authentic battle is expected to see who brings the Portuguese back to Europe.
This news is an automatic translation. You can read the original news, El club de Europa que podría cerrar el fichaje de Joao Cancelo
