The past few hours have witnessed exciting developments in the file of Saudi League professionals, as international press reports revealed that a new club has entered strongly in the race to sign Portuguese star Joao Cancelo, the right-back of Al-Hilal Club, during the winter transfer period, joining the list of interested parties that includes European giants.
Porto enters the race to compete with Europe's elite
According to a report in the Italian newspaper La Gazzetta dello Sport, Portuguese club Porto has expressed serious interest in acquiring the services of their compatriot João Cancelo. This interest intensifies the competition with Italian club Inter Milan and Spanish giants Barcelona, who are also closely monitoring the player's situation. Porto aims to capitalize on Cancelo's desire to return to European football, hoping to secure a regular starting position and high competitiveness, thus improving his chances of making Portugal's squad for the 2026 World Cup.
Motives for leaving and Al-Hilal's stance
This news coincides with reports indicating that Al-Hilal's manager, Portuguese Jorge Jesus, may not favor re-registering the right-back in the team's domestic squad in the upcoming period, opening the door for his potential departure, either on loan or permanently. Al-Hilal signed the 31-year-old player in the summer transfer window for the 2024/2025 season from Manchester City in a big-money deal, to replace Saud Abdulhamid, who moved to Roma.
A remarkable career and Cancelo's numbers with the leader
João Cancelo has featured in six matches for Al-Hilal this season, making a significant impact by scoring one goal and providing two assists in 469 minutes of play. Cancelo boasts an impressive resume, having previously played for some of Europe's biggest clubs, including a successful spell with Inter Milan in the 2017/2018 season while on loan from Valencia, as well as stints with Juventus, Bayern Munich, and Barcelona.
The importance of the event and its expected impact
Cancelo's potential transfer carries significant sporting implications. His return to Europe, via Porto or Inter, would bolster Portugal coach Roberto Martinez's options ahead of the upcoming World Cup. Furthermore, his departure from Al-Hilal would open the door for the club to seek another foreign option or rely on local players at right-back, potentially altering the team's tactical approach for the remainder of the season in domestic and Asian competitions.
