In a turn of events that has dashed Arsenal's aspirations, Manchester City's Joao Cancelo is reportedly on the brink of joining Barcelona as the two clubs exchange documents for the transfer. The 29-year-old full-back, who had also been linked with a potential move to Arsenal under Mikel Arteta, is now set to bolster Barcelona's squad in a loan deal.
Having spent the latter half of the previous season on loan at Bayern Munich, Cancelo's trajectory seemed uncertain. However, the latest reports suggest that La Liga champions Barcelona are closing in on securing his services.
Arsenal, who had shown keen interest in acquiring Cancelo's talents, will now have to rethink their transfer plans. Only recently, on August 18, it was revealed that the Gunners were in active discussions with the player's representatives, aiming to bring him to the Emirates Stadium.
The news of Cancelo's impending move to Barcelona signals the conclusion of Arsenal's pursuit of the versatile full-back for this summer transfer window. As fans anticipate further updates on this developing situation, it remains to be seen how both Manchester City and Arsenal will navigate their respective paths following this unexpected twist in the transfer saga.
