Barcelona manager Xavi has today spoken about Joao Cancelo and where his proposed move to the club from Manchester City is at.
The full-back has been strongly linked with the Spanish giants for weeks now.
He has played no part for City since the new season started.
He featured in pre-season a couple of times.
But Cancelo is not a player Pep Guardiola wants to count on – after reports the pair fell out back in January.
Cancelo has supposedly been close to joining Barcelona, and is even said to have already rented a flat near near the club.
And today, Xavi has provided an update on the situation.
Xavi comments on Joao Cancelo situation amid Man City full-back’s links to Barcelona
Today, Xavi was asked about Cancelo and the club’s proposed move for the 29-year-old.
Certainly in the papers, the indication has been that this move is now fairly close.
But Xavi has not really given that impression today.
Mundo Deportivo quote him as saying: “We’ll see, depending on fair play as always. Economically we are in the situation that we are unfortunately.
“We are open to the market. The idea and the sports management know exactly what they need.”
Cancelo buy option could be the hold up
Xavi’s comment do suggest that Barca are struggling to reach an agreement with City over something at present.
Earlier this week, it was reported that Barca have not yet settled on a buy option for the ‘special’ player, who City signed for £60 million. In fact, the suggestion was that Barca actually don’t want one included.
Seemingly, Barca are intent on signing Cancelo on loan.
It is going to be an interesting next couple of days regarding Cancelo and Barcelona’s pursuit of him.
