Bayern Munich attempting to HIJACK transfer of Manchester City defender in audacious deadline day swoop

Joao Cancelo is subject to late transfer interest from former club Bayern Munich, as a proposed season-long loan move to Barcelona continues to stall.

The full-back, who sensationally quit the Etihad Stadium in January, is yet to complete a transfer away from Manchester City for the new campaign, with just hours remaining in the summer transfer window.

Cancelo is not considered as part of Pep Guardiola’s plans for the season, despite the 29-year-old featuring during Manchester City’s pre-season matches in July.

The Portugal international moved to Bayern Munich after a rumoured bust-up in January, where the full-back made 15 Bundesliga appearances and won the German top-flight title.

The 29-year-old had looked set to join Barcelona on a season-long loan, with Cancelo’s long-term contract at Manchester City until 2027, causing a notable hurdle in transfer negotiations.

Barcelona are currently unable to register the player due to financial issues, and as a result, a move to Catalonia has stalled, despite the defender having been ready to fly to Spain to complete a medical earlier this week.

Florian Plettenberg reports that Bayern Munich are now considering whether to hijack the proposed transfer to the Nou Camp, and bring the 29-year-old back at the Allianz Arena for the 2023/24 campaign.

The Bundesliga club have made a late enquiry about a loan move for Cancelo, as despite having a verbal agreement with Barcelona, no medical has taken place.

Should a transfer fail to be completed before Friday’s deadline, the Portugal international risks being without a club for the season, unless a deal with a Saudi Pro League side could be agreed – with the Middle Eastern transfer window open until late September.

Cancelo joined Manchester City from Juventus for £60 million in 2019, and made 26 appearances for the Sky Blues prior to moving to Bavaria last season.

Bayern Munich have made numerous attempts to sign several Manchester City players this summer; with enquires regarding Kyle Walker, Julian Alvarez, Kalvin Phillips and Stefan Ortega all failing to materialise.