Inter Milan remain in a holding pattern over João Cancelo, as doubts persist in Barcelona despite growing pressure on coach Hansi Flick from the club’s hierarchy.
According to La Gazzetta dello Sport, Inter had hoped to close the deal with a quick breakthrough.
However, they have instead been forced to wait as Cancelo hesitates.
The Portuguese defender is keen to play Champions League football in the build-up to the 2026 World Cup and believes his chances of lifting the trophy may be higher with Barcelona than in Milan.
Inter already have an agreement in principle with Al-Hilal, who are willing to cover a significant portion of Cancelo’s salary in exchange for one experienced defender.
Inter Prepare Swap For Cancelo As Barcelona Coach Flick Vetoes Move
LISBON, PORTUGAL – MARCH 5: Head Coach Hans-Dieter Flick of FC Barcelona in action during the UEFA Champions League 2024/25 Round of 16 First Leg match between SL Benfica and FC Barcelona at Estadio da Luz on March 5, 2025 in Lisbon, Portugal. (Photo by Gualter Fatia/Getty Images)
Either Francesco Acerbi or Stefan de Vrij would move in the opposite direction, but only once Cancelo gives the green light.
The problem for Barcelona is technical rather than political.
Head coach Hansi Flick is not convinced by the idea of signing Cancelo.
Indeed prioritising instead a left-footed central defender.
Flick also remains unconvinced by the idea of moving Jules Koundé inside permanently.
Flick is aware the club have room for only one major addition under Financial Fair Play rules.
Indeed, he does not want to “waste” that slot.
While Jorge Mendes continues to lobby president Joan Laporta, Inter remain cautiously optimistic.
Cristian Chivu has privately endorsed the move.
However, Inter are unwilling to wait indefinitely as both clubs, and Al-Hilal, await Cancelo’s final call.