Recent Italian media reports indicate that Inter Milan are making serious moves to open communication channels with Saudi Arabian club Al-Hilal to explore the possibility of signing Portuguese international full-back João Cancelo during the upcoming winter transfer window. This news is expected to ignite the transfer market early, especially given the player's considerable talent.
Details of the proposed financial offer
According to a report published by the Italian newspaper Tuttomercato on Thursday, Inter Milan officials have drafted a preliminary proposal to loan the 31-year-old player until the end of the season. The financial plan proposed by the Italian side includes paying €4 million as part of the player's salary during the loan period, along with an option for Inter to purchase the player outright at the end of the season for a reduced fee. This reflects Inter's desire to strengthen their squad at the lowest possible cost given the current economic challenges.
Cancelo's career with Al-Hilal and his current statistics
This interest comes at a time when some sources indicate that Al-Hilal's coaching staff might be open to discussing offers for the player, particularly those related to the team's domestic roster. Al-Hilal secured Cancelo's services during the 2024/2025 summer transfer window, acquiring him from Manchester City in a high-profile deal. Since joining the club, the Portuguese full-back has made six appearances, scoring one goal and providing two assists in 469 minutes of play, showcasing glimpses of his renowned attacking prowess.
Historical background: Cancelo and Serie A
The Italian league is not unfamiliar territory for João Cancelo, as he has extensive experience in Serie A. He previously wore the Inter Milan jersey during the 2017/2018 season while on loan from Valencia, delivering impressive performances that attracted the attention of Europe's top clubs, before later moving to Juventus and then Manchester City. This prior knowledge of Italian football and its tactics makes his return a logical and attractive option for Inter's management, who are looking for a ready-made player who wouldn't need a long adaptation period.
Expected impact of the deal
If this deal goes through, it will be one of the most significant winter transfers, bringing Cancelo back to the forefront of European football through the former Champions League runner-up. It will also underscore the dynamic and fluid nature of the transfer market between the Saudi league and Europe's top five leagues, further solidifying the Roshan League's position as both an attractive destination and a source of international stars.
