Barcelona 'preparing formal loan offer for Joao Cancelo'

The Catalan giants are determined to strengthen the right side of their defence this summer, with Xavi reluctant to continue to utilise Ronald Araujo and Jules Kounde in that position.

USA international Sergino Dest does not feature as part of Xavi's plans, while Sergio Roberto is regarded as a first-choice full-back.

Villarreal's Juan Foyth was one of the names considered by Barcelona, having been a long-term target for the La Liga Champions.

However, they decided against pursuing a deal for the 25-year-old due to the player's hefty €54m (£46.6m) release clause.

They are now set to turn their attention to Cancelo, who has been linked with a move to Barcelona throughout the summer.

According to journalist Fabrizio Romano, Barcelona are now preparing to submit a formal loan bid with an option to buy.

Barcelona are expected to use the funds raised from Ousmane Dembele's sale to Paris Saint-Germain to help finance the loan move.

The full-back is seemingly keen to complete a move to La Liga, having already agreed personal terms with the Catalan club.

There is some way to go before a deal is agreed, with Sport reporting that negotiations over the buy option are proving to be a stumbling block.

Barcelona are only willing to pay €25m (£21.6m) for the 29-year-old, while Man City are demanding the purchase clause to be set a €45m (£38.6m).

While it remains to be seen whether the two clubs can reach a compromise, Cancelo is still expected to leave the Etihad Stadium this summer.

The Portuguese defender spent the second half of last season out on loan at Bayern Munich after falling out of favour under Pep Guardiola.

Cancelo, who joined Man City from Juventus in 2019, has made 154 competitive appearances for the Citizens, contributing nine goals and 22 assists.