Manchester City’s Joao Cancelo shocks Bayern loan deal

Bayern Munich are close to signing Manchester City full-back Joao Cancelo, sources tell ESPN.

The German side hopes to reach an agreement for Cancelo to immediately move into a first loan with a €70 million perpetual contract option in the summer.

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Multiple sources have told ESPN that his relationship with manager Pep Guardiola has broken down and Cancelo wants to leave City after growing frustrated with his lack of playing time.

The 28-year-old was a regular for Pep Guardiola’s side early in the season, but has started just five of his last 14 games.

At the World Cup in Qatar, he lost his place in Portugal due to his poor health.

Sources told ESPN Guardiola is open to leaving Cancelo after being impressed with Rico Ruiz’s arrival and Nathan Ayke’s performance at left-back.

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City have not offered the cancellation to any other club, but Bayern’s bid is believed to represent good business for the club and player.

Cancelo arrived at the Etihad Stadium from Juventus in 2019 and was key to winning the Premier League titles in 2021 and 2022.

He has also been named the Premier League Team of the Year for both 2021 and 2022.

A source told ESPN that City are unlikely to try to replace Cancelo if he leaves for Bayern before the deadline. City continue to look for trophies in the Premier League, Champions League and FA Cup.