UD Almeria, owned in part by Cristiano Ronaldo, has secured the permanent signing of Portuguese midfielder Andre Horta from SC Braga. This marks the club's seventh acquisition of the summer as they aim to strengthen their squad for the upcoming season in Spain's Segunda Division.

Horta's Transfer Details

The club confirmed that they activated the purchase option in Horta's loan agreement, resulting in the 29-year-old signing a three-year contract that will keep him at Almeria until June 2029. Horta previously spent the 2025 to 2026 season on loan at Almeria, where he made 20 appearances, although his time was hampered by injuries. His performances during that period convinced the club to make his transfer permanent.

Active Summer for Almeria

Since Ronaldo acquired a 25 percent stake in Almeria earlier this year, the club has been active in the transfer market. Horta joins a list of new signings that includes Brian Cipenga, Miguel de la Fuente, Jorge Pulido, Quim Junyent, Leo Baptistao, and Alex Sola. Cipenga, in particular, gained attention for his impressive FIFA World Cup performance with DR Congo, where he scored a memorable goal against England.

Almeria's official announcement emphasized Horta's experience at the highest levels of European football, noting his participation in both the UEFA Champions League and UEFA Europa League. With Ronaldo continuing his playing career at Al Nassr while also taking an active role in Almeria's operations, the club is optimistic that their recruitment efforts will lead to a successful promotion campaign for the 2026 to 2027 season.