João Cancelo is set to leave Al Hilal in the January transfer window, with Serie A leaders Inter Milan taking the lead in negotiations for the Portuguese full-back.
Inter have approached Al Hilal to ask about loan deal conditions and explore the potential structure of a João Cancelo January transfer, according to transfer specialist Fabrizio Romano. The Nerazzurri are in direct discussions with both the Saudi Pro League club and the player’s agent Jorge Mendes as they seek to bolster their defensive options.
Barcelona have been informed about the opportunity to re-sign the 30-year-old, who spent the 2023-24 season on loan in Catalunya. However, Financial Fair Play regulations must be considered as a key point for Barcelona before any move can materialize. Juventus also had early contact with Mendes in the last 48 hours to enquire about Cancelo’s situation at Al Hilal.
Cancelo joined Al Hilal in August 2024 from Manchester City in a permanent deal worth £21 million on a three-year contract. The Portuguese international has made 45 appearances for the Saudi club across two seasons, scoring three goals and providing 12 assists. This season, he has featured in 13 matches, netting once and adding two assists while playing 1,970 minutes.
The versatile defender’s career has seen him represent some of Europe’s elite clubs. After coming through Benfica’s academy, Cancelo played for Valencia, Inter Milan, Juventus, and Manchester City, where he won three Premier League titles. He also had successful loan spells at Bayern Munich and Barcelona before his move to Saudi Arabia.
What Else?
At 30 years old, Cancelo brings vast experience with 75 caps for Portugal and a reputation for his attacking prowess from full-back positions. His potential departure from Al Hilal just months after arriving underscores the challenges of adapting to Middle Eastern football and the persistent pull of European competition.
Inter’s pursuit represents a return to Serie A, where Cancelo previously impressed during his 2017-18 loan spell at San Siro, earning a place in that season’s Team of the Year. His familiarity with Italian football could prove decisive as clubs jostle for position in what promises to be one of January’s most intriguing sagas.
