Barcelona to End Joao Cancelo Pursuit as Manchester City Reject Final Offer

Barcelona are set to withdraw their interest in Joao Cancelo following Manchester City’s firm rejection of their latest bid for the defender. The two clubs have been engaged in protracted negotiations since the start of the summer, but an agreement remains elusive.

Cancelo, who has expressed a strong desire to return to Barcelona, seemed like a promising addition for the La Liga giants. Manchester City, open to parting with the Portuguese international, had set a firm asking price of €25 million for the 30-year-old.

Despite Cancelo’s willingness to reduce his salary to facilitate the move, City has remained steadfast in their valuation. Barcelona’s latest offer, which fell short of City’s asking price, has been turned down, prompting the Catalan club to reconsider their position.

Pep Guardiola had previously indicated that he might reintegrate Cancelo into his squad, especially as City explores offers from the Saudi Pro League that meet their financial demands. This potential deal from the Saudi league could align with City’s €25 million valuation, complicating Barcelona’s efforts to negotiate a reduced price.

As reported by Mundo Deportivo, Barcelona are now prepared to walk away from the deal rather than meet City’s full asking price. The decision underscores the financial constraints Barcelona are facing, which limit their ability to engage in high-cost transfers.

With negotiations at an impasse and City resolute in their stance, it appears that Cancelo’s anticipated move to Barcelona will not materialize this summer. As the transfer window progresses, both clubs will need to explore other options to address their respective needs.