Other > João Cancelo’s Potential Transfer to Al Hilal: A Game-Changer?

João Cancelo’s Potential Transfer to Al Hilal: A Game-Changer?

2024.07.05 Hamburg Volksparkstadion w Hamburgu, UEFA Euro 2024, cwiercfinaly, Pilka nozna, Portugalia - Francja N/z CRISTIANO RONALDO JOAO CANCELO Foto Mateusz Porzucek PressFocus 2024.07.05 Hamburg Football match between Portugal and France, 1/4 quarterfinal Portugalia - Francja CRISTIANO RONALDO JOAO CANCELO Credit: Mateusz Porzucek PressFocus Credit: Sipa US/Alamy Live News
© Alamy / Sipa US

Al Hilal and Manchester City have reached a verbal agreement for João Cancelo’s transfer. The Portuguese defender is considering a lucrative offer from the Saudi club, which could mark a significant shift in his career.

  • Al Hilal and Manchester City have a verbal agreement for Cancelo’s transfer.
  • The transfer fee is around €30 million.
  • Al Hilal is offering Cancelo a €18 million net salary per season.
  • Cancelo’s decision is pending and will determine if the transfer proceeds.

The Verbal Agreement

According to a tweet by renowned football journalist Fabrizio Romano, Al Hilal has secured a verbal agreement with Manchester City for the transfer of João Cancelo. The details of the deal include a €30 million package, but the final decision rests with Cancelo himself. Al Hilal has tabled an enticing offer of a €18 million net salary per season to the Portuguese defender, who is yet to make his decision public.


João Cancelo: A Versatile Defender

João Pedro Cavaco Cancelo, born on May 27, 1994, in Barreiro, Portugal, is a highly versatile defender known for his capability to play both right-back and left-back positions. Standing at 1.82 meters, Cancelo has been a crucial asset for Manchester City since joining in 2019.

Cancelo’s contract with Manchester City runs until June 30, 2027, and his agent, Gestifute, will likely play a key role in the final decision regarding his potential move to Al Hilal.

Career Highlights

  • Youth Career: FC Barreirense, SL Benfica
  • Senior Career:
    • SL Benfica B (51 appearances, 2 goals)
    • Valencia (77 appearances, 2 goals)
    • Inter Milan (loan) (26 appearances, 1 goal)
    • Juventus (25 appearances, 1 goal)
    • Manchester City (98 appearances, 5 goals)
    • Bayern Munich (loan) (15 appearances, 1 goal)

The Saudi Pro League’s Growing Appeal

The Saudi Pro League has been increasingly attracting high-profile players from Europe’s top leagues. This trend is evidenced by Al Hilal’s aggressive pursuit of João Cancelo, a move that could significantly bolster their defensive lineup. Should Cancelo accept the offer, he would join a growing list of elite players making the switch to the Middle East.

Transfer History

  • SL Benfica to Valencia (loan): 2014
  • Valencia to Inter Milan (loan): 2017
  • Valencia to Juventus: 2018, Transfer Fee: €40.4 million
  • Juventus to Manchester City: 2019, Transfer Fee: €65 million
  • Manchester City to Bayern Munich (loan): 2023

The decision now lies with Cancelo, who must consider the lucrative financial terms against his professional aspirations in European football. His move to Al Hilal could mark a significant shift in his career trajectory, offering new challenges and opportunities.

For more detailed player statistics and transfer history, check Cancelo’s profile on Transfermarkt.

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