Al-Hilal head coach Simone Inzaghi has provided a brief update on the future of Portuguese defender Joao Cancelo, who remains sidelined amid ongoing transfer talks with Barcelona.

Cancelo was notably absent from the Al-Hilal squad for their opening match of the Saudi Pro League season on Friday, further fuelling speculation that the Portugal international is eyeing a return to Camp Nou. The full-back is hoping to secure a permanent move to Barcelona after what has been described as another successful loan spell, though a deal between the two clubs is yet to be agreed.

When pressed on Cancelo's situation following Friday's match, Inzaghi kept his cards close to his chest, deflecting questions about the player's future to the club's hierarchy.

"He continues to train regularly with the team. As for his future and the question of whether he stays, that's a question for the board," Inzaghi told reporters.

The Italian coach's comments suggest that while Cancelo remains integrated in Al-Hilal's training routines, the final decision on his destination lies with the club's decision-makers rather than the coaching staff.

Al-Hilal raise asking price

According to the latest reports, Al-Hilal have upped their asking price for Cancelo as negotiations with Barcelona continue. The Saudi club appear to be holding firm in their valuation, which could complicate matters for the Catalan giants as they look to strengthen their defensive options before the transfer window closes.

Cancelo's desire to return to Barcelona is no secret, and the player is believed to be waiting patiently for the two sides to reach an agreement. However, with Al-Hilal seemingly in no rush to offload the defender at a reduced fee, the impasse could yet drag on as the transfer window ticks down.