Barcelona sign Joao Cancelo on loan from Manchester City

Barcelona have completed the signing of Portugal international Joao Cancelo, who has arrived on loan from Manchester City for the 2023-24 campaign.

The 29-year-old spent the second half of last season on loan at Bayern Munich, but the German champions rejected the chance to sign him on a permanent basis.

There has been a host of speculation surrounding the defender's future this summer, with a number of clubs, including teams from the Saudi Pro League, thought to be interested in his signature.

However, Barcelona have recently emerged as the favourites for his signature, and it has now been announced that the full-back has moved to Camp Nou on loan from Man City.

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Despite their financial problems, Xavi's side have also managed to sign Joao Felix on loan from Atletico Madrid ahead of the closing of the transfer window.

Permanent deals this summer were always unlikely due to the club's issues when it comes to registering players, but Cancelo and Felix will now be at Xavi's disposal for the 2023-24 campaign.

"FC Barcelona and Manchester City have reached an agreement with Manchester City for the loan of Joao Cancelo until 30 June 2024. There is no option for a permanent transfer," read a statement on the Catalan outfit's official website.

"The club wishes to thank the player publicly for the financial effort made and his desire to wear the Barca shirt."

The flash is here! ⚡ pic.twitter.com/gdwYQB3s27

— FC Barcelona (@FCBarcelona) September 1, 2023

Cancelo's relationship with Man City head coach Pep Guardiola is believed to have broken down towards the end of last year, which led to his departure in January.

The experienced defender has been a key player for the Citizens in recent seasons, though, making 154 appearances in all competitions since his arrival from Juventus.

Cancelo has won three Premier League titles and the EFL Cup during his time in Manchester, while he helped Bayern secure last season's Bundesliga title.

The right-back could potentially be involved in Barcelona's La Liga clash with Osasuna on Sunday.