Manchester City’s João Cancelo is on the verge of finalizing a significant transfer to Saudi Pro League champions Al-Hilal in a deal valued at €25 million. This move marks a major step in Cancelo’s career as he prepares to join one of the most ambitious clubs in the Middle East.
According to reports from L’Equipe, the Portuguese full-back is expected to commit to a three-year contract with the Riyadh-based club, where he will earn a substantial €15 million annually. This contract will not only secure Cancelo’s future financially but also position him as a key player in Al-Hilal’s quest for continued dominance in the league.
Cancelo, who was once a pivotal figure for Manchester City, had previously signed a five-year extension with the Premier League champions in 2022, indicating the club’s long-term plans for him. However, despite his initial success, he found it increasingly difficult to secure a regular spot in Pep Guardiola’s squad, a situation that ultimately led to his decision to explore opportunities elsewhere.
His struggles to break into the first team resulted in two loan spells, first with Bayern Munich during the latter half of the 2022-2023 season, where he played a crucial role in their campaign, and then with FC Barcelona the following year, where he continued to showcase his talents on the European stage.
At Al-Hilal, Cancelo will join an already star-studded lineup, which includes his fellow countryman Ruben Neves, Serbian midfielder Sergej Milinkovic-Savic, and Brazilian superstar Neymar. This move not only adds depth and experience to Al-Hilal’s squad but also enhances their competitive edge in both domestic and international competitions.
The transfer of Cancelo to Al-Hilal represents another high-profile acquisition for the club, as they continue to strengthen their team under the guidance of coach Jorge Jesus. With the addition of Cancelo, Al-Hilal is further solidifying its reputation as a destination for top-tier talent, aiming to maintain its status as the leading force in Saudi Arabian football.