Following the conclusion of the Misli Premier League season, Neftchi has begun its transfer activities and is close to completing its first signing of the summer.

According to Offsideplus.az, the “Whites and Blacks” have reached an agreement with Araz-Nakhchivan’s central defender Igor Ribeiro.

The Brazilian defender had attracted the attention of top Azerbaijani clubs earlier in the season due to his consistent performances. Reportedly, both Qarabağ and Neftchi had shown early interest in the player, but it seems Neftchi has won the race for his signature.

As per the agreement between the clubs, Neftchi will pay a fee to Araz-Nakhchivan for the 28-year-old’s transfer. If no issues arise in the final stage, Ribeiro is expected to sign a three-year contract with the Baku-based club.

For the record, Igor Ribeiro joined Araz-Nakhchivan in the summer of 2023. His current contract with the Nakhchivan side runs until the summer of 2026. During the 2024/2025 season, the centre-back made 37 appearances and provided one assist.