Why Barcelona may struggle to fulfil desire to keep Man City loanee Joao Cancelo beyond the summer - explained

Earlier this month, Barcelona president Joan Laporta had expressed his desire to retain the service of Cancelo beyond the current campaign - albeit not as a permanent signing. However, according to SPORT, Manchester City might not allow the defender to spend one more season on loan with the Catalan club.

The Blaugrana are not in a position to pay any transfer fee in the upcoming window due to their financial constraints, while the Cityzens will look to cash in on Cancelo's transfer - who is valued at approximately €50m (£42m). The Catalan side is now banking on the player's agent Jorge Mendes to convince the Premier League giants to soften their stance on the Portugal international.

The 29-year-old full-back has attracted interest from several Saudi Pro League sides which include giants like Al-Hilal. It remains to be seen now if the player would be willing to move to the Middle East or try and convince his parent club to send him out on a second loan spell in Barcelona.

The defender will be next seen in action for Xavi's side on Saturday as they take on Las Palmas at home in an important La Liga fixture.