Arsenal has been informed that they still have a good opportunity to secure the signing of Joao Cancelo from Manchester City during the summer transfer window. The Portuguese full-back was loaned out to Bayern Munich in January after falling out of favor with Pep Guardiola. However, with Cancelo now surplus to requirements at City, the club is actively seeking to move him on. While Real Madrid and Barcelona have cooled their interest due to City’s high asking price of £60 million, Arsenal could potentially match the fee.
Surplus to Requirements at Manchester City
Joao Cancelo fell out of favor at Manchester City under Pep Guardiola, with John Stones preferred in a more advanced role and Nathan Ake favored at left-back. Consequently, Manchester City loaned out Cancelo to Bayern Munich with the possibility of a permanent deal. However, Bayern Munich did not exercise their option to buy, and Cancelo has returned to City. Now, City is actively looking to offload the 29-year-old defender.
In the event of Cancelo’s departure, Manchester City has identified Benjamin Pavard as a potential replacement for Kyle Walker. City must act in this transfer window to secure a significant fee for Walker before his contract expires. Discussions with Bayern Munich about Walker’s move may also include negotiations for Pavard’s potential transfer to City.
Arsenal Keen to Acquire Cancelo
Arsenal, despite already making big signings like Declan Rice and Jurrien Timber, are still considering the signing of Cancelo. Full-backs are not a priority for Arsenal currently, but if Kieran Tierney leaves, the situation may change. Arsenal could potentially acquire Cancelo for a lower fee later in the transfer window if other clubs are not actively pursuing him. Joao Cancelo’s agent, Jorge Mendes, is reportedly working on a plan to facilitate a loan move to Barcelona.
Cancelo is unlikely to stay at Manchester City for the upcoming season. Barcelona has emerged as a potential destination for the 29-year-old defender. Mendes is working on a plan that appeals to Barcelona’s new coach, Xavi, and president Joan Laporta. The plan leverages Guardiola’s relationship with Laporta to facilitate the transfer.
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