Inter Step Up João Cancelo Loan Push as Barcelona Weigh Move, With Wage Hurdle Looming

Overview

• João Cancelo has informed Al-Hilal he wants to leave this month, with agent Jorge Mendes sounding out European options.
• Inter have made him their primary winter target and are pushing for a swift loan to cover Denzel Dumfries’ injury during a crowded January.
• Barcelona have lodged an enquiry and are considering a move that would bolster right-back and allow Jules Koundé to shift centrally during injury cover.
• Reports conflict on the state of talks, with some saying Inter have begun discussions with Al-Hilal and others indicating contact has only been with the player’s camp.
• The chief obstacle is Cancelo’s reported €15.5–€18m net salary, making a loan feasible only with a major wage subsidy from Al-Hilal or a sizable pay cut, as Juventus also keep tabs.