According to a report from Manchester Evening News, Manchester City have dramatically reduced Joao Cancelo’s price tag, with Barcelona considering moving in for the fullback. Additionally, Bayern Munich hold an option to purchase him as part of the agreement that brought him to Germany. Nevertheless, indications suggest Bayern will not exercise that option during the summer transfer window.
Cancelo’s Impressive Numbers This Season
In a surprising move during the January transfer window, Joao Cancelo departed Manchester City. He joined Bayern Munich on loan, despite being a regular starter under Pep Guardiola in the first half of his campaign. The Sky Blues and the Bavarian Giants have both clinched their respective league titles this season. The Portuguese international has featured in 21 matches for the Bavarian side, finding the net once in his Bundesliga stint after making 26 appearances for Manchester City earlier in the campaign.
The Portuguese sensation has given a good account of himself at both ends of the field based on his average of 1.7 tackles, 1.1 interceptions, 1.2 clearances, 0.9 shots, 0.9 key passes and 2.2 dribbles per 90 minutes in the Bundesliga. He has even been tidy with his ball distribution after making 85.6% of his attempted passes in league football (stats via whoscored).
Cancelo’s contract at the Etihad Stadium runs until the summer of 2027. Still, it appears unlikely that the defender will remain in Manchester and be there for the beginning of next season.
Is Cancelo’s Exit From Manchester City Imminent?
Cancelo is an assertive full-back known for his strong tackling abilities, adept at timing his challenges to regain possession for his team in defensive areas of the field. He is not hesitant to clear the danger when required and also possesses the vision to execute influential passes in the attacking third. The Portuguese talent is an impressive dribbler, showcasing his skill with the ball at his feet, and is capable of unleashing powerful strikes from long distances.
Nevertheless, Pep Guardiola has made it clear that he does not intend to retain Cancelo at the Etihad for the upcoming season. This is evident from the significant reduction in his price tag, which has been slashed from £62 million to £34 million, indicating Guardiola’s clear intentions regarding the player’s future.
Bayern have dropped the prospect of signing him permanently despite a successful loan spell at the Allianz Arena. So Cancelo’s best option would be to secure a move to Barcelona, as the Spanish giants have maintained their interest in acquiring his services.
