Barcelona have completed the signing of Portugal international Joao Cancelo on a free transfer, the La Liga champions announced on Thursday.
“The full-back arrives as a free agent and signs on until June 30, 2029,” the club said in a statement.
Cancelo ended his contract with Saudi Pro League side Al Hilal to facilitate his return to Barcelona, where he has previously featured on two loan spells.
The 32-year-old spent the second half of last season at Camp Nou, helping Hansi Flick’s side retain the La Liga title.
Cancelo began his professional career in Portugal before moving to Spain and Italy.
He later joined Manchester City in 2019 and went on to establish himself as one of Europe’s leading attacking full-backs.
He was also loaned to Bayern Munich and Barcelona during the 2023/24 season before making a permanent move to Al Hilal in 2024.
His return strengthens Barcelona’s defensive options as the Catalan giants continue their preparations for the new campaign.
Cancelo becomes the latest high-profile addition to Flick’s squad this summer, following Rodri, Anthony Gordon and Karim Adeyemi.
Barcelona are still seeking a new striker following the departures of Robert Lewandowski and Ferran Torres.
Their pursuit of Atletico Madrid forward Julian Alvarez has stalled after the Madrid club refused to sanction the Argentina international’s departure.
Barcelona will begin their La Liga title defence on Sunday when they travel to face Elche.
