Barcelona 'hatch plan' to sign Joao Cancelo from Man City

Barcelona are prepared to remain patient to secure the signature of Joao Cancelo this summer as they continue their pursuit of the Manchester City star, according to reports.

Cancelo enjoyed a successful loan spell with the Catalan giants last season, registering 42 appearances across the campaign. The defender netted four goals, including two in the Champions League and became a vital part of Barca's squad - along with fellow loanee Joao Felix.

Barca have made their feelings clear on Cancelo and would be keen to see him remain at the club, and that feeling is believed to be mutual. However, they will only make a move for the player if a loan option is available, whereas City want to sell him permanently.

As per reports from SPORT, Barca are prepared to act "patiently" to secure Cancelo. City remain set on their asking price of €30m, which is too high for the Spanish side, who are instead hoping to see that value drop as the end of the transfer window inches closer.

Sporting director Deco plans to wait until later in the window, when Pep Guardiola's determination to part ways with Cancelo could force City to agree to another loan deal.

Clubs in Saudi Arabia are ready to match City's price, but Barcelona hope that Cancelo will reject their advances to further increase the pressure on City to facilitate a return to Camp Nou.

Barca are in no rush to sign a right-back and already have Jules Kounde, Hector Fort and Julian Araujo who can play on the right side of defence.

City will continue to look for a permanent buyer for Cancelo, with agent Jorge Mendes instructed to find the right-back a home away from the Etihad, but Barcelona believe that they can win the race for his signature by waiting until later in the window.

READ THE LATEST BARCELONA NEWS, TRANSFER RUMOURS & GOSSIP