Cancelo still not participating in preseason with Al-Hilal

João Cancelo has not yet joined the preseason with Al-Hilal. The FC Barcelona maintains that one of the main objectives of this transfer market is to secure Cancelo's continued involvement with the team. Negotiations with Al-Hilal have been ongoing for several weeks, and the initial intention of the Barcelona management was for the Portuguese defender to integrate into the preseason camp in England.

However, negotiations remain open, and as of now, both clubs have not reached a definitive agreement. Meanwhile, another detail has surfaced: Cancelo's national teammate, Rúben Neves, has already participated in the Saudi club's training camp after completing his vacation. Portugal's participation in international competitions ended on July 6, as the team was eliminated by Spain, and players have since completed their three-week official vacation.

Al-Hilal even shared on social media Neves' arrival at the training camp in Austria and confirmed he passed the necessary medical examination before returning to the squad. However, there was no mention or images of Cancelo, whose absence did not go unnoticed. The player himself has refrained from giving any hints about his situation. In his latest social media post, Cancelo only showcased an individual training session on a field, wearing a sky blue and pink shirt, without any reference to his future.

The situation surrounding Cancelo remains a priority for Barcelona. Manager Hansi Flick expressed his satisfaction with the performance from the Portuguese international during his six-month loan last season. His versatility and ability to play on both flanks made him an important player, even to the point of becoming a starting left-back in the decisive moments of the season. The player has also made no secret of his desire to continue wearing the Barcelona jersey. Yet, the main obstacle remains contractual; Cancelo still has an active contract with Al-Hilal, and the operation hinges on finding a solution that allows his departure under acceptable conditions for all parties.

From the outset, Barcelona has understood that the negotiation could take some time due, primarily, to financial and fiscal considerations.