Barça have officially signed João Víctor Alves Sena, also known as Neguinho. The agreement with Illes Balears Palma Futsal was finalized months ago. During negotiations, the Balearic general manager, José Tirado, consented to a significant reduction in Neguinho’s termination clause (125,000 euros) on the condition that he remained on loan for the final season of his contract. Barça’s team manager, Jordi Torras, agreed and included an option to bring Neguinho in earlier, during the winter transfer window, if needed due to injuries.
Neguinho did not fit into Tino Pérez’s new Barça setup this summer. Especially following the renewal of captain Sergio Lozano, who will now take on a more defensive role. Despite budget constraints, Jordi Torras was keen on securing Neguinho. Considering it a strategic signing, as the Brazilian international could have joined any club for free in January. Barça wanted to secure him this summer, leading to the deferred signing with a loan arrangement. However, the club retains the option to recall him in January if injuries necessitate it.
Neguinho is Barça’s first signing for the 2025-26 season
Neguinho is Barça’s first signing for the 2025-26 season, during which the futsal team will undergo significant squad changes. At 24, he is seen as one of the best defenders globally and has signed until June 2028. Jordi Torras has thus secured the services of top defensive talents from Brazil and Spain, with Antonio Pérez (23) and Erick Mendonça (29) expected to shine after a season of adaptation. Youth player Adrián Tapias, currently on loan to CD Tudelano, could also be added to the mix.
In January 2022, Palma Futsal signed Neguinho from Corinthians, where he had been recognized as one of the best young players in the world. He had debuted with the senior national team at the Copa América and was named the best player in the U-21 World Cup final. Having also won the São Paulo league and been named the top U-21 defender. In 2023, after a brief loan to Noia and an unsuccessful move to Ribera Navarra, Neguinho returned to Brazil, winning the national league with Atlántico and being named the championship’s best finisher. In January 2024, José Tirado secured his return to Palma Futsal.
Rejecting several European offers after Neguinho rejoined the Brazilian national team and became a Copa América champion. Neguinho played a crucial role in Palma Futsal’s UEFA Futsal Champions League victory, scoring twice in the final against Barça. With the departure of Romulus and Chaguinha, coach Antonio Vadillo plans for Neguinho to become the team’s key point guard, aiming for national titles, maintaining European dominance, and defending their Intercontinental Cup title against Magnus Futsal.