Arsenal looked at signing Manchester City’s João Cancelo before he joined Barcelona on loan in the last window.
That’s according to Sport, who mention Arsenal in a report that focuses on the La Liga side’s plan to retain the 29-year-old beyond this season.
It’s said the Catalan club are clear the Manchester City owned player must continue at the Camp Nou.
The defender has convinced the Blaugrana and it’s now their job to agree a deal with the treble winners. Sport say it won’t be easy but Cancelo will do his part to extend his stay.
Pep Guardiola’s side were keen to cash in from his sale in the summer window, when he was wanted by Arsenal and a few Saudi clubs. However, the Portugal international only wanted Barcelona and that forced the Citizens to agree for a loan deal.
His deal at the Etihad lasts until 2027 and due to his ‘difficult relationship’ with Guardiola, it’s claimed the Premier League winners will open the door for his exit.
Barcelona wanted to include a €30m purchase option, which wasn’t agreed by Manchester City.
The report states Cancelo is valued at €50m and the Citizens believe that will increase, after his impressive performances for the Spanish giants. He could also receive offers from elsewhere next summer, which would complicate Barca’s efforts to keep him at the club.
Cancelo ‘absolutely prioritises’ staying at the Camp Nou and this would give Barcelona an advantage when negotiating with Manchester City. Sport indicate a new loan deal with a mandatory purchase option could be a solution after this season.
