Bayern Munich did not have to pay a loan fee to obtain Joao Cancelo from Manchester City until the end of the season, according to reports.
Following the stunning January transfer, more information on Cancelo’s loan move to German champions Bayern Munich has emerged.
The City full-back joined Bayern on loan on deadline day, and it has been reported that Bayern have the option to buy him outright for €70 million (£62 million/$76 million) in the summer.
Hasan Salihamidzic, Bayern’s sports director, has now confirmed to Sport Bild journalist Christian Falk that no loan fee was necessary and explained why: “The fact that Cancelo worked without a price is down to the network.”
Despite a recent slump in play, Cancelo had established himself as probably the best defender in the world, which is why City’s decision to permit a loan to an elite club like Bayern raised more than a few eyebrows.
Cancelo pushed on completing the transfer in order to gain more regular playing time, and City manager Pep Guardiola agreed.
However, it was believed at the time that the 28-year-old had a falling out with his manager due to his reduced playing time, precipitating his departure.
Guardiola previously coached Bayern Munich, and the transaction progressed fast with all sides in agreement.
Cancelo has made an immediate impact in Germany, assisting on his debut, and will be a significant boost to Bayern’s domestic and European campaigns this season.
The Portugal international will be back in action when Bayern plays Bochum in the Bundesliga on Saturday.
