Leonardo Lelo is the latest addition to UD Almería’s squad for the 2026/27 season. The 26-year-old Portuguese left-back joins from SC Braga on a season-long loan, with the Andalusian Club retaining an option to make the move permanent.

Lelo arrives at the UD Almería Stadium after an impressive 2025/26 campaign with SC Braga, making 47 appearances across the Primeira Liga, Portuguese Cup and UEFA Europa League. He also contributed 8 assists, highlighting his attacking ability and importance in the final third.

His arrival strengthens a position UD Almería were looking to reinforce, with Álex Muñoz previously the only recognised left-back in the first-team squad. Lelo’s attacking qualities and experience are set to provide an additional option on the left flank.

Born in Olhão, Portugal, on 30 March 2000, Leonardo Filipe da Cruz Lelo began his footballing career with his hometown club, Olhanense. He made the step up to Casa Pia in the 2021/22 season, helping the Lusitanian club secure promotion to Portugal’s top-flight. During his time with Casa Pia, he made 142 appearances.

Lelo subsequently continued his development at SC Braga, establishing himself as an attacking-minded full-back and gaining valuable experience in domestic and European competition.

Leonardo Lelo becomes UD Almería’s 8th first-team signing ahead of the 2026/27 season, following the arrivals of goalkeeper Áron Yaakobishvili, centre-back Jorge Pulido, midfielders Mikel Vesga, Quim Junyent and Javi Muñoz, and wingers Álex Sola and Brian Cipenga.