Almería's transfer window wraps with Ely return, Aridane exit and Langa's Portuguese switch
Rodrigo Ely returns to Almería on a free transfer as Aridane departs, while Bruno Langa moves from Cyprus to Portugal's top flight in a last-minute winter window shuffle.
The closing hours of the transfer window are passing with unusual tranquility for Almería supporters, who can finally breathe easy without being glued to their mobiles for last-minute drama.
Ely’s homecoming
Rodrigo Ely has completed his return to Almería on a free transfer after terminating his contract with Brazilian side Grêmio. The central defender rejoins the club two and a half years after his departure, already celebrating with teammates following their victory against Ceuta.
The Brazilian has already begun training with the squad, though the official announcement might be delayed due to time differences with Brazil as the clubs exchange final documentation. Since Ely has already terminated his Grêmio contract, his signing could technically be announced even after the transfer deadline closes.
Aridane shown the door
Ely’s arrival meant curtains for Aridane, with neither the club nor manager Rubi counting on the Canary Islander’s services. The defender hasn’t featured since December 21st in the defeat at Málaga, where he had a proper mare. Despite numerous defensive injuries in the squad, Aridane remained unused and has now terminated his contract with Almería.
Langa’s Portuguese adventure
Meanwhile, Bruno Langa has swapped Cyprus for Portugal in an interesting move. The Mozambican left-back was initially on loan at Cypriot side Pafos, where he even featured in Champions League football, but Almería negotiated an early termination of that arrangement.
Langa will now spend the remainder of the season on loan at Estrela Amadora in the Portuguese top flight. His long-term future remains with Almería, where he has a contract until 2028.
Junyent deal looks unlikely
One final potential surprise would be Quim Junyent from Barcelona Atlètic, though this appears increasingly unlikely as the deadline approaches. While Almería have reportedly reached an agreement with the player, whose contract expires this summer, Barcelona are demanding compensation for an early release.
The rojiblancos prefer to wait and sign him on a free transfer rather than pay now, making a midnight deal before the window closes highly improbable.