Archive · 20 Aug 2026
Barcelona Sign João Cancelo on Free Transfer Through 2029
Barcelona has signed João Cancelo, a football defender, without paying a transfer fee.
He agreed to stay with the club until June 30, 2029.
Cancelo ended his contract with Al Hilal so he could return to Barcelona.
He had already played for Barcelona twice on loan.
Last season, he helped the team keep its La Liga title.
Before joining Al Hilal, he played for clubs including Manchester City and Bayern Munich.
Barcelona still wants to find a new striker after two forwards left the team.
The club begins its new La Liga season against Elche on Sunday.
Barcelona announced the signing of Portugal defender João Cancelo as a free agent.
Cancelo signed a contract with Barcelona through June 30, 2029.
The 32-year-old ended his contract with Saudi Arabian club Al Hilal to return to Barcelona.
Cancelo previously had two loan spells at Barcelona and helped the club retain La Liga last season.
Barcelona are still seeking a striker and will open their La Liga campaign at Elche on Sunday.
- Who
- Barcelona and Portugal international defender João Cancelo.
- What
- Barcelona signed Cancelo as a free agent on a contract through June 30, 2029.
- When
- The signing was announced Thursday; Barcelona begins its La Liga campaign Sunday.
- Where
- Cancelo is returning to Barcelona after leaving Al Hilal in Saudi Arabia.
- Why
- He terminated his Al Hilal contract to return to Barcelona, where he previously played on loan.
- Transfer type
- Free transfer
- Contract
- Through June 30, 2029
- Player
- João Cancelo, Portugal international defender
- Age
- 32
- Previous Barcelona spells
- Two loan spells, including the second half of last season
- Previous club
- Al Hilal
- Next match
- La Liga opener at Elche on Sunday