Bayern Munich still mulling over £61m Joao Cancelo transfer fee after Man City loanee finally makes impact in Germany

BAYERN MUNICH have not ruled out activating their £61million option to sign Joao Cancelo permanently this summer.

GettyBayern Munich could yet make Joao Cancelo’s loan from Man City permanent[/caption]

However, he has played his part in helping Bayern regain the upper hand in the German title race in recent weeks.

Sporting director Hasan Salihamidzic said Munich have yet to decide on a deal for the Portuguese.

He said: “Cancelo is a top player, technically he is a pleasure to watch.

“We are glad to have him. In terms of the option to buy, we haven’t decided anything.

“We will do that after the end of the season. It’s too early now to say — there are no talks yet.”

Barcelona are also monitoring his situation although the fee may prove a problem for them.

Cancelo’s relationship with boss Pep Guardiola became strained and a transfer looks likely.

He joined City from Juventus almost four years ago in a £28m swap deal that saw Danilo go the other way.

Cancelo has since scored nine goals in 154 games, mainly as a left-back.

But Guardiola’s shift to a back three this season saw his minutes limited.

Cancelo has now played 19 times for Bayern, starting the last six in all competitions.

And former Chelsea boss Thomas Tuchel looks to have been completely won over in the process.