Barcelona Closing in on Joao Cancelo and Rodri Signings

Barcelona’s busy week in the market is edging towards a double coup, but only one of the new faces is set to step into the spotlight right away.

The Catalan club are closing in on deals for Joao Cancelo and Rodri, two signings designed to sharpen both ends of the pitch. Rodri is expected to be unveiled in front of the home crowd during the Joan Gamper trophy clash against Al Ahly. Cancelo, though, will have to wait for his moment.

Cancelo in Barcelona, but no green light yet

The Portuguese full-back has already landed in the city and reached an agreement with Barcelona. He’s back where he wanted to be and has pushed hard to make it happen, even giving up the salary he was due for the remainder of his contract at Al Hilal.

For now, it’s all behind closed doors.

According to Victor Navarro, Barcelona are not ready to make the move official just yet. The formal announcement could be held back by two to three days. The exact reason remains unclear, but the feeling around the deal is that the final details between Barcelona and Al Hilal still need to be tied up.

The club also have their hands full preparing the big Rodri presentation during the Joan Gamper trophy game, and that showpiece has been given priority.

What is clear is Cancelo’s stance. The former Juventus defender has pushed “heaven and earth” to wear the Barcelona shirt again. His determination has been evident throughout the pursuit, and the club see that as a valuable signal heading into a demanding season.

No Gamper minutes for the new faces

The delayed announcement carries a straightforward sporting consequence: Joao Cancelo will not feature in the Joan Gamper trophy against Al Ahly. Without the official registration, Barcelona cannot call on him for the traditional curtain-raiser.

Rodri is unlikely to play either. The Spanish international is set for a grand unveiling in front of the supporters, but that moment will be symbolic rather than competitive. His first minutes will have to wait.

Both players, though, are expected to be available for Barcelona’s La Liga opener against Elche on August 23. That is the real target date inside the club.

And then comes the next question. When Cancelo is finally cleared, does he walk straight into the starting XI ahead of Alejandro Balde? The young full-back’s pre-season form has raised doubts, opening the door for the returning Portuguese to reclaim the flank from day one.