Barcelona Transfer News Roundup: Catalan giants eyeing Joao Cancelo, Hansi Flick wants to sign a match-winner, and more - July 21, 2024
Barcelona are working to improve their squad before they embark on a fresh start under Hansi Flick. The German manager took charge at Camp Nou at the end of May after the club parted ways with Xavi.
Meanwhile, the Catalan giants remain interested in Joao Cancelo. Elsewhere, Flick is keen to rope in a proven winner this summer.
On that note, let's look at the major Barcelona transfer stories from July 21, 2024.
Barcelona want Joao Cancelo
Barcelona have retained their interest in Joao Cancelo, according to acclaimed journalist Fabrizio Romano.
The Portuguese right-back spent last season on loan at Camp Nou from Manchester City and endured a mixed campaign.
While he registered a robust start to life with the Catalans, his performances dropped as the season progressed. However, the La Liga giants remain keen to secure his services this summer.
Barcelona have identified the 30-year-old, who registered four goals and five assists in 42 matches across competitions last season, as a priority target for the right-back position. The player is no longer part of Pep Guardiola's plans and City are ready to let him go.
Barca do not have the finances to script a permanent deal and are hoping for a second loan spell. However, the Premier League champions are likely to push for a permanent exit amid interest from Juventus and Inter Milan.
Interestingly, it is believed that the Portuguese prefer a return to Camp Nou, which could work in Barcelona's favor.
Hansi Flick wants to sign a match-winner
Hansi Flick has urged Barcelona to sign a match-winner this summer. The Catalans are eyeing multiple new faces as they look to improve their squad before the start of the new campaign.
Athletic Bilbao star Nico Williams has been identified as a priority target. The 22-year-old is proven in La Liga and was also decisive for Spain at Euro 2024, scoring in the final against England.
Williams' international teammate Dani Olmo is also on the Catalans' radar. The 26-year-old played a key role in La Roja's Euro 2024 triumph as well and is likely to leave RB Leipzig this summer.
Speaking to the club's media, Flick stated that Barcelona need a player who can win them games.
"We have to bring in a player who can win games, but we also have young players who we have to help so that they can improve. I've felt from day one the passion that the people have. The fans. Everyone. The president. Everyone here, those who work here, have that passion for Barca. The devotion to give their best for this club," said Flick.
"And that's also something big for us because we want to be part of this entity and live this passion and this devotion. We want to give everything we have to take this club to the next level. We will do everything possible," he added.
Recent reports have suggested that the Catalans are ready to trigger Williams' release clause, which is believed to be around €58m.
Eric Cantona heaps praise on Lamine Yamal
Manchester United legend Eric Cantona has spoken highly of Lamine Yamal. The 17-year-old exploded into the scenes at Barcelona last season, registering seven goals and 10 assists from 50 games across competitions.
He hit an even higher gear with Spain at Euro 2024, earning the Young Player of the Tournament award. His efforts have earned him admirers at clubs across the continent, but Yamal remains settled at Camp Nou.
Speaking recently, as cited by Barca Universal, Cantona insisted that the Red Devils do not have anyone like Yamal in their ranks.
“I love the way Spain play and it’s good to have this type of player, because you never know what he’s going to do. He surprises everyone every time. He has great vision, great technique and makes the right decisions. I love him. Sometimes I watch a game just to watch a player,” said Cantona.
“They (Manchester United) have some good ones, some great players, of course. But I wouldn’t say there’s anyone like Yamal. The ball is a friend, and it’s so wonderful to have this relationship with the ball. The ball is not an enemy. Too many players feel that the ball is a kind of enemy. But when you see Lamine Yamal, you really feel that the ball is his friend. Even a brother,” he added.
Yamal, who registered one goal and four assists in seven Euro 2024 games, is under contract at Camp Nou until 2026.