According to A Bola, Rafael Fernandes has been transferred to Marítimo from Lille on loan. The central defender, who was trained at Sporting, was the only new signing in the starting lineup against Casa Pia. Rafael Fernandes also played for Rangers in the 2024/25 season on loan from Lille.

Rafael Fernandes, a 24-year-old Portuguese central defender who represented Lille, has joined Marítimo for the new season, which marks the return of the Madeiran club to the elite of Portuguese football. He joined Lille on 31/01/2024 and has represented Portugal at the U21 level. His current market value is estimated by Transfermarkt to be €500k.