Latest developments
- Aston Villa are interested in Joao Cancelo.
- The ex-Manchester City star moved to Al-Hilal last summer.
- Manchester United and AC Milan are also eyeing a move for Cancelo.
Whisper+ analysis
Authenticity (2.5/5): Fichajes.net with a surprising claim
Joao Cancelo could return to Europe in the summer after impressing Aston Villa with his exploits at Al-Hilal in Saudi Arabia. Manchester United and AC Milan are also interested in the ex-Manchester City full-back. Unai Emery believes the Portuguese could be a key piece for his ambitious project.
This comes from Fichajes.net, the Spanish transfer site who, as usual, are keeping their source information close to their chest.
Value (2.5/5): Al-Hilal to demand a significant fee
The Riyadh-based outfit spent an initial £21million on signing the 30-year-old. Considering he has excelled in the Saudi Pro League and is tied to the club until the summer of 2027, expect Al-Hilal to demand a significant fee for his transfer.
Suitability (3.5/5): Attacking full-back
During his time at City, Cancelo was one of the best attacking full-backs in the Premier League, impressing with his technical prowess and crossing ability. As such, if Villa are looking to play on the front foot, he is going to be a good option for them.
Upgrade? (3/5): Challenge for Garcia
Villa's alleged interest in Cancelo is surprising since they only signed right-back Andres Garcia from Levante this winter. Accordingly, the Spaniard could find himself competing for minutes with Cancelo next season.
Logic (3/5): Premier League return
If Cancelo is looking to compete at the highest level once again, a move to Villa is bound to appeal to him. However, it's fair to assume the Birmingham side are unlikely to hand as lucrative a contract as Al-Hilal.
Whisper+ verdict: 14.5/25
Considering how ambitious Villa have been in the transfer market in recent years, this move can't be ruled out.
