Ahead of Manchester City’s upcoming contest against West Ham United on Saturday, the decision-makers at the club will be hoping any of their deadwood is let go by Friday’s deadline day in the build-up to their next game.
However, such a task would be easier said than done for not just City but any club as other sides could be wary of signing unwanted players.
But Pep Guardiola’s side possess a degree of quality where even some of their potentially unwanted players would be starters elsewhere.
Even if the player is rated within the Manchester City camp but chooses to depart the Etihad Stadium, there is a possibility that they become stars at another club.
Cole Palmer’s importance at Chelsea is the prime example of such a theory.
Joao Cancelo’s case, however, could be considered slightly different.
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Romano says Joao Cancelo to Al Hilal transfer update
While Cancelo remains a top player, Manchester City, Bayern Munich and Barcelona have all decided that he is no longer in their plans.
But at Euro 2024, the 30-year-old was one of Portugal’s few shining lights, indicating that his quality remains unquestionable.
Described as “outstanding” by Paul Dickov via Manchester City’s official website, a motivation to sign the former Juventus full-back could be that he would have a point to prove.
The versatile defender would be keen to revitalise his career as a starter elsewhere.
Now, Fabrizio Romano has revealed that a club have taken a punt on the ex-Valencia technician.
Romano has attached his signature, ‘Here we go’ catchprase to a move involving Cancelo and Al Hilal for €25 million (£21 million).
The once-City fan favourite is believed to have conducted the first part of his medical to sign for the Saudi Pro League giants as well after a verbal agreement was reached over the deal.
Cancelo is claimed to have been tied down to a contract until 2027 at the club.
Cancelo will be a player who divides opinion within the Man City fanbase
For some, Cancelo will likely be considered as a player who was incredible at one point for Manchester City within their fanbase.
As a result, such a group of supporters will look back upon the Portuguese international’s time at the club fondly.
Others, however, could feel that barring two seasons, Cancelo failed to prolong his brilliance at City, despite being one of the best full-backs in Europe.
Furthermore, Manchester City decided to move on from him very quickly and in the same season, won the treble while lifting their fourth successive title in the following campaign.
As a result, Cancelo’s critics for his spell at City might question if he was even that important to their success.
Regardless, Al Hilal could prove to be a destination for Cancelo where he attains a sense of stability while Manchester City will be happy that the ongoing transfer saga surrounding him seems to have finally come to a close.
