A Manchester City standout has affirmed his departure from the club this summer to join FC Barcelona, stating that it has long been his aspiration to play for the Catalan giants.

According to numerous reports, Barcelona’s president has confirmed the likelihood of his team acquiring a Manchester City player whom Pep Guardiola is now less inclined to retain.

Under Guardiola’s tactical alterations, John Stones has notably thrived, frequently participating in attacks despite his central defensive position. However, the tactical changes did not favor full-back Joao Cancelo.

The Portuguese player had been a standout performer during City’s successful seasons but faced uncertainty about his role once Guardiola introduced a back three formation with Stones in a versatile position. Consequently, Cancelo, aged 29, was loaned out to Bayern Munich last season and subsequently to Barcelona for the current campaign.

Barcelona president Joan Laporta has voiced his anticipation of Cancelo’s return to Catalonia next season, along with Joao Felix, who is also on loan.

Laporta has revealed that discussions are ongoing with both Atletico Madrid and Manchester City regarding the potential extension of Cancelo and Felix’s loans or their permanent transfers.

Laporta hinted that the agreement terms would likely involve extending the loan with an option or obligation to purchase, with the ultimate decision contingent upon financial considerations.

As per insights from transfer expert Fabrizio Romano, Laporta’s mention of an extension with a transfer fee suggests a loan arrangement with either a purchase option or obligation.

It’s reported that Guardiola is disinclined to retain Cancelo in his squad, stemming from disagreements over the player’s reduced role in the 2022/23 season before his loan to Bayern.

While Barcelona prefers another loan with a purchase option, Manchester City and Guardiola reportedly lean towards a permanent sale to finance new signings.

Given Barcelona’s financial constraints, they may opt for a loan deal with an option or obligation to buy.

Despite potential differences in preferences, it’s evident that Barcelona is eager to secure Cancelo’s return, while the player himself is interested in continuing his career at the Camp Nou.