Tornike Shengelia joins Dubai after Barcelona buyout

FC Barcelona announced that Georgian forward Tornike Shengelia will leave the club after the team paid roughly €1 million to trigger his contract buy‑out clause. Within minutes, the Dubai Basketball club confirmed the signing, making Shengelia the newest addition to its roster.

Shengelia, 34, posted averages of 12.4 points, 4.6 rebounds and 2.6 assists in the EuroLeague last season and helped Barcelona reach the EuroLeague playoffs. The move also reunites him with former Barcelona coach Cavi Paskval, who now leads the Dubai side. Barcelona cited a financial crisis in its basketball department as a factor in the player's departure.

The transfer marks a high‑profile acquisition for Dubai, which aims to boost its competitiveness in the regional league.