Barcelona dealt blow as Saudi club keen on signing La Liga giants' defensive target - Reports

Barcelona have received some negative news in their pursuit of Joao Cancelo. According to The Guardian, Saudi Pro League side Al-Hilal have expressed interest in signing the Manchester City defender.

They are ready to offer a lucrative proposal to the Portugal international, who is keen on leaving the Cityzens. The player is reportedly on unfavourable terms with manager Pep Guardiola and an exit is being discussed.

Cancelo spent the 2022-23 campaign on loan at Barcelona, where he proved to be a useful player for Xavi. Used as a full-back on either side, he made 42 appearances across all competitions, bagging four goals and five assists.

A return to the Camp Nou has been on the cards but the Catalan side's financial situation has made it difficult. However, the addition of the 30-year-old could be vital to a Blaugrana side that seem to lack options at the full-back positions.

Currently, the likes of Alejandro Balde and Hector Fort are available at left-back, while Jules Kounde has been slotted in as the starter at right-back. It remains to be seen if Hansi Flick's side will pursue the Portugal international.

---

Fabrizio Romano issues update as veteran midfielder considers leaving Barcelona

Barcelona midfielder Ilkay Gundogan is exploring his options over a possible departure from the club. According to Fabrizio Romano, the German star could leave the Catalan giants.

The report claims that while manager Hansi Flick expects him to stay, a departure could be on the cards to help alleviate the side's financial troubles.

Romano said:

"Ilkay Gündogan can really leave Barça before the end of the transfer window. Not guaranteed yet but his camp has started exploring options for the final days as Barça are open to letting Ilkay go."

"Flick said he expects Gündo to stay but solutions are being explored," he added.

The 33-year-old joined Barcelona after leaving Manchester City on a free last summer. He was a regular presence in midfield for Xavi, making 51 appearances across all competitions where he scored five goals and set up 14 more.

However, the arrival of Dani Olmo means the side are willing to let Gundogan go. The Spain international reportedly completed a €55 million move from RB Leipzig in the summer.

Romano further claimed that a reunion with Pep Guardiola at the Etihad is on the cards, while Gundogan has also received offers from the Saudi Pro League.