Barcelona seemingly can’t catch a break this summer transfer window, as Joao Cancelo could join the ever-growing list of transfer targets who have slipped out of the club’s grasp.
The hierarchy at Camp Nou received plenty of criticism for their failed pursuit of Lionel Messi during the early days of the summer. Missing out on Arda Güler to fierce rivals Real Madrid early in July was equally frustrating.
Earlier this week Barca saw their dreams of another high-profile return nipped in the bud by the riches of Saudi Arabia, as Neymar joined Al-Hilal despite interest from his former side. Meanwhile, Xavi’s priority target Bernardo Silva has verbally agreed to extend his stay at Manchester City.
As we approach the dying embers of the transfer window, signs are little that things would be any different.
Barcelona target Joao Cancelo is starting to look at Arsenal
Having missed out on Messi, Güler, Neymar, and Silva, it seemed the Blaugrana would be able to make amends by finally giving Xavi a quality natural right-back.
The Barcelona boss likes Joao Cancelo. The 29-year-old is open to a new opportunity after an underwhelming loan spell at Bayern Munich. And City are understood to be willing sellers. Still, the Catalan outfit have not yet sent an offer to the Premier League side for their right-back.
As per Luis Rojo, Cancelo is starting to look at other options, such as Arsenal. Whether the North London giants will make a bid for the player remains unclear. However, they might look for a new full-back following a serious injury to their new signing Jurrien Timber. The Dutchman suffered an ACL injury during the Premier League opener against Nottingham Forest and will undergo surgery.
A separate report elsewhere claims despite Arsenal’s interest, Barcelona remain hopeful of securing Cancelo’s services and want to wrap up the deal this week.