Tornike Shengelia will play for Dubai Basketball. The deal is done and the Dubai club will pay Barcelona close to one million euros to release the Georgian power forward, according to Matteo Andreani, confirming reports from Ernest Macià.
The move represents another major statement from Dubai in the European market. After making a strong entrance into the EuroLeague, the project continues to acquire hierarchy, experience, and top-tier names. Shengelia, 35, arrives on a multi-year contract with the conviction that the team can compete for the EuroLeague title right away.
The player's decision was key. Toko wanted this move and saw Dubai as a real opportunity to fight for the major European title in this final stage of his career. There he will find an ambitious project, financial muscle, and a roster designed to compete at the highest level.
For Barcelona, his departure leaves a significant gap. Shengelia was a player of character, craft, and quality at the power forward position. His exit forces the Blaugrana to adjust their interior rotation and confirms that Barcelona's summer remains wide open.
Dubai adds a player with an enormous track record: Liga Endesa champion with Baskonia in 2020, EuroCup champion with Virtus Bologna in 2022, Italian champion in 2025, and for years one of the most recognizable power forwards on the continent. Additionally, he is the great reference point for the Georgian national team.
It's not just a marquee signing. It's leadership, competitive toughness, game reading, and experience in big games. Dubai sends another clear message to the market: it doesn't want to be a guest in the EuroLeague, it wants to compete for it.