João Cancelo is making it clear he wants to return to Barcelona, but Hansi Flick is not rushing into a decision as the club plans its next moves in the transfer market.
The Portugal international spent last season on loan at Barça and did enough to keep the door open for another spell in Catalonia. Cancelo featured regularly across the back line, offered a strong attacking threat from wide areas and became a trusted option as injuries and rotation forced changes throughout the campaign.
Now, with his future still tied to Manchester City, Cancelo has sent signals that he is ready to push for a permanent switch. The defender has effectively put himself forward again for the Blaugrana, hoping Barcelona will find a way to make the numbers work despite ongoing financial limits.
Flick, however, has struck a measured tone when asked about the situation. The new Barcelona head coach is understood to value full-backs who can contribute in possession and play with intensity, but he is also assessing the squad he has and the profiles he needs before giving the green light to any deal.
Barcelona’s interest is complicated by cost. Cancelo’s wages and City’s asking price remain key obstacles, and Barça are expected to explore formulas that could include a new loan, a reduced fee, or a payment structure spread over time. Any agreement would likely depend on player sales and the club’s ability to create room on the wage bill.
From Cancelo’s side, the message is straightforward. He enjoyed his time at Barcelona, settled quickly, and believes he can play an important role under Flick. His representatives are expected to maintain contact with Barça as the summer progresses, with the aim of turning his preference into a concrete offer.
City, for their part, are unlikely to stand in the way if their conditions are met. Cancelo is not viewed as untouchable, and the Premier League champions have shown a willingness in recent windows to move on players who are not central to the manager’s plans.
For now, there is no final decision, but the direction of travel is clear: Cancelo wants Barcelona, Barcelona are considering it, and Flick’s stance will be crucial in determining whether the club makes a serious move to bring him back.
