FC Barcelona remains optimistic about permanently signing Joao Cancelo, though the transfer may not be finalized until after the team’s pre-season training camp in England, according to reports from Mundo Deportivo.

The source claims that the Portuguese full-back has already reached personal agreement with the Blaugrana, emphasizing his desire to return to the club this summer.

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The last step is for Barcelona and Al-Hilal, where Cancelo is contracted until 2027, to finalize the transfer once a number of fiscal and administrative details are resolved.

No Rush from Barcelona

Cancelo’s loan ended officially at the end of June, just before Portugal’s exit from the World Cup.

Since then, the 32-year-old has been enjoying a summer break in Sardinia, Italy, while awaiting the two clubs to complete the agreement.

Likely to arrive next month. (Photo by Molly Darlington/Getty Images)

Within Barcelona, there is no immediate urgency. Head coach Hansi Flick acknowledges that Cancelo has only recently started his vacation period, and the club does not anticipate the transfer’s completion before the first team’s pre-season camp at St George’s Park.

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As such, Cancelo is expected to begin pre-season training with Al-Hilal under Simone Inzaghi before eventually making his move to Catalonia.

Squad Options During Preseason

Barcelona is confident they have enough time to finalize the transfer before the La Liga season commences, with their opening league match set for August 23 against Elche.

In the meantime, Flick has several options on the left side of defense during pre-season.

Alejandro Balde remains the primary choice, while academy prospect Jofre Torrents continues to receive valuable opportunities.

Balde will be hoping to impress in pre-season. (Photo by Aitor Alcalde/Getty Images)

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Gerard Martin, who naturally plays as a left-back but has increasingly taken up the centre-back role, also offers support in that position.

Meanwhile, 17-year-old academy full-back Jordi Pesquer has joined first-team training in recent days as Balde follows a customized fitness program, providing the coaching staff with another young option during pre-season preparations.

It is evident that Barcelona is confident about finalizing Cancelo’s deal in the coming weeks, following his successful second loan spell at the club.