Joao Paulo signed with FCSB on Monday, but there are issues with his work permit and he may have to wait to obtain it. At a press conference, Elias Charalambous announced that the club hopes Joao Paulo can play but they have problems with the work permit and must wait. He added that if the situation is resolved in the next hours, Joao Paulo will be available for the match; otherwise, he will play in the next game. Gigi Becali was dissatisfied with the work permit situation, noting that Joao Paulo is not new to the league and just arrived from Oțelul, and stated that he will use his status as a parliamentarian to intervene and expedite the process.

FCSB submitted a new offer to Oțelul for 27-year-old defensive midfielder João Paulo from Cape Verde after the latter reportedly rejected a previous bid of 300,000 euros. Oțelul has accepted the new proposal, and FCSB is now negotiating with the player's agents to complete the transfer. An agreement between FCSB and João Paulo's representatives is close. Specialized websites value the footballer at 700,000 euros. João Paulo joined Oțelul in July 2025 and is under contract until June 2027. The Cape Verde international has 37 caps and one goal for his country. In the 2025/2026 SuperLiga season, he has made 1 appearance, scoring 3 goals and providing 2 assists.