Hansi Flick has made his priorities crystal clear ahead of Barcelona’s pre-season preparations.
While the search for a new centre-forward remains ongoing, the German coach first wants Barcelona to complete the Joao Cancelo signing, believing the Portuguese international is the final piece needed to finish the club’s defensive rebuild.
According to AS, Flick has asked sporting director Deco to speed up the Joao Cancelo Barcelona transfer after Portugal’s elimination from the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
In fact, the outlet also mentions that the German manager would consider his defensive structure complete once the signing is made official.
Notably, with an agreement already in place between Barcelona and Al-Hilal, the operation is now entering its final stages.
Hansi Flick wants Joao Cancelo available for pre-season
Joao Cancelo of Portugal
Flick wants Cancelo at Barcelona. (Photo by Molly Darlington/Getty Images)
Joao Cancelo’s return to Barcelona is now viewed as a matter of timing rather than uncertainty.
Flick believes the 32-year-old’s versatility will give his side greater balance, with the Portugal international capable of playing on either flank while also offering an extra attacking outlet.
That flexibility is one of the main reasons Hansi Flick wants Joao Cancelo back at the club.
Flick sees the defender as an automatic starter and wants him fully integrated before Barcelona begin their week-long training camp in England.
Joao Cancelo, Portugal and Barcelona player
Barcelona have reached an agreement for Cancelo’s transfer. (Photo by Carlos Rodrigues/Getty Images)
Having already impressed during his previous spell at Camp Nou, Cancelo requires little adaptation, making him one of the easiest signings to incorporate into Flick’s tactical plans.
Barcelona and Al-Hilal agreement leaves only one step remaining
The latest Barcelona transfer news indicates the negotiations are virtually complete.
As reported before, Barcelona and Al-Hilal have reached an agreement worth around €10 million, including fixed and variable payments, leaving only the player’s signature before the transfer becomes official.
Once the paperwork is completed in the coming days, Barcelona will complete Joao Cancelo’s signing in time for the start of pre-season, giving Flick exactly what he requested.