Valencia and Racing have reached an agreement for the loan of André Almeida until the end of the current season. The deal does not include a purchase option. Newly-promoted Racing will pay a sum close to half a million euros for the loan and the player's wages until June 30, 2027, after which Almeida will return to Valencia. The move followed interest from other clubs. Swansea explored a permanent transfer in July that Valencia accepted, but the player did not want to move to the English second division. Celta also showed interest, and it was reported that Almeida favoured this option, but an agreement could not be finalized. Almeida was excluded from Valencia's squad for their last match by technical decision because of the talks with Racing, preceding his departure. The transfer frees up a squad place for Valencia, who intend to sign a striker. The move also comes as Almeida's first-team opportunities were further limited by the arrival of Harvey Elliott.