In a recent print edition, Sport mentioned that Arsenal are showing interest in Barcelona full-back Joao Cancelo who is currently playing on loan from Manchester City. It is believed that the Gunners are eyeing a move to bring the Portuguese talent to North London this summer.
Cancelo’s Decent Run Of Form In Portuguese Football
Cancelo has put in a series of impressive displays on the right side of Xavi’s defence during this campaign. The Portugal international has scored four goals and picked up four assists in 33 matches for Barcelona this season across all fronts.
The 29-year-old has been a positive influence at both ends of the field as he is averaging 2.1 tackles, 0.8 interceptions, 1.4 clearances, 1.0 shots, 1.2 key passes and 2.2 dribbles per game in La Liga. He has even been tidy with his ball distribution after making 83.6% of his attempted passes in top-flight football (stats via whoscored).
His current contract at his parent club Manchester City will expire in the summer of 2027. Hence, it won’t be easy for the Gunners to land Cancelo on the cheap at the end of this campaign.
Is Cancelo A Good Choice For Arsenal Boss Mikel Arteta?
Cancelo is a tough-tackling defender who can make some timely interceptions for his team inside his half when he is playing well on the pitch. The Portuguese talent usually clears the danger when he can and is even proficient at setting up a few promising chances for his teammates in the opponent’s half.
Cancelo can strike the ball with power and accuracy from long range. He is a good dribbler with the ball as well. The Portugal international is primarily a right-back but can also fill in as a left-back or as a right-sided wide player if needed.
We can expect Cancelo to bring more quality to Arsenal boss Mikel Arteta’s first XI. He has what it takes to compete with Ben White for a regular starting spot at the Emirates Stadium in the coming seasons. Plus, the Portuguese full-back might help the Gunners challenge for some major honours in the future.
At 29, Cancelo is still playing in his prime and has got some Premier League experience under his belt. Therefore, he would be an excellent choice for the North London club to consider in the upcoming transfer window.
