Joao Cancelo: Barcelona director Deco admits club could sign Manchester City ace

Barcelona director Deco has admitted the club would be keen to sign Manchester City ace Joao Cancelo – provided he performs during his loan spell. The Portugal full-back completed a one-year loan switch to the Nou Camp in August.

Cancelo spent the second half of last season on loan at Bayern Munich after a falling out with Pep Guardiola. He returned for Manchester City’s pre-season tour but failed to resolve his differences with Guardiola.

City agreed to let Cancelo move to the Nou Camp but the club, who are in financial disarray, did not include any obligation to buy the Portuguese.

Deco’s comments

However, Deco says that’s something the club could be interested in next summer.

‘There’s no buy option in both João Félix and Cancelo deals — one year loan,’ said Deco.

‘If they perform at good level, we will try to keep them at the club. We will be on it, this is not something being discussed today.’

Cancelo’s form

Cancelo has made a positive start to life at Barcelona, featuring in all three of their La Liga matches so far this season. He was particularly impressive in the 3-0 win over Osasuna last weekend, providing an assist for Lionel Messi’s opener.

The 26-year-old has been a regular in the Champions League too, starting both of Barcelona’s group stage matches against Ferencvaros and Juventus.

What next?

It remains to be seen whether Cancelo will remain at Barcelona beyond this season. The club are likely to face stiff competition for his signature if they do decide to make his move permanent.

For now, though, Cancelo is focused on helping Barcelona challenge for major honours this season. The Catalan giants are currently top of La Liga and have a great chance of progressing from their Champions League group.

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