Saudi Pro League giants Al-Hilal are reportedly targeting Manchester City’s full-backs Joao Cancelo and Kyle Walker as part of their summer transfer plans, Soccernet.football reports.
According to the Guardian, Al-Hilal have drawn up a three-man shortlist to bolster their squad, following the need to replace Saud Abdulhamid.
The list includes Cancelo, Walker, and Bayer Leverkusen’s Jeremie Frimpong, with Al-Hilal eager to make a high-profile signing.
Initially, the Saudi club had considered a move for Liverpool’s Trent Alexander-Arnold.
However, the England international made it clear that he had no interest in a move to the Saudi Pro League, prompting Al-Hilal to focus their attention on other top-tier options.
Kyle Walker, who was previously linked with a move to Bayern Munich last summer, earlier committed his future to Manchester City, signing a contract extension that keeps him at the Etihad Stadium until 2026.
Manchester City are reportedly reluctant to let the experienced defender leave, making a transfer to Al-Hilal unlikely.
In contrast, Joao Cancelo’s situation at Manchester City is far more uncertain.
After spending last season on loan at Barcelona and being left out of the squad for the recent match against Chelsea, Cancelo’s future at the club appears to be in doubt.
Manager Pep Guardiola has acknowledged that the Portuguese full-back could leave, opening the door for a potential return to Barcelona or move to Saudi Arabia.
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A move to Al-Hilal could provide Cancelo with an opportunity to revive his career, especially after a season of limited opportunities.
As the transfer window progresses, it remains to be seen whether the Saudi club will successfully secure the services of one — or both — of Manchester City’s defensive stars.
