Rio Ave has announced the signing of Zé Carlos, according to A Bola. The player has signed a contract valid until 2028. After three and a half consecutive seasons at Gil Vicente, Zé Carlos was expected to move abroad but chose to continue in the Liga by joining Rio Ave. The contract was signed after the transfer window had closed.

Right-back Zé Carlos, 27, is very close to signing for Rio Ave after his contract with Gil Vicente ended, making him a free agent. This news was first reported by Cabine Desportiva and was confirmed by A BOLA. A BOLA also states that the parties are finalizing the details of an agreement. According to information gathered by the newspaper, Zé Carlos had prioritized a move abroad, having attracted interest from the English Championship and received offers from Bulgaria. However, the project and attractive proposal from Rio Ave are expected to convince him to stay in Portugal. The Vila do Conde club intends for Zé Carlos to be an important member of the squad under coach Sotiris Silaidopoulos, valuing his experience in the Liga.