COLUMBUS – The Columbus Crew announced late Thursday night that the Club has signed midfielder Andre Gomes from Lille OSC. Gomes, 32, joined Lille in September 2024 after his loan at Everton expired. The Portuguese midfielder is set to sign for until June of 2027, with a Club option for the 2027-2028 season. Gomes will occupy an international roster spot.
From Grijó, Portugal, Gomes joined powerhouse FC Barcelona ahead of the 2016-2017 season. In three seasons, Gomes appeared in 78 matches, tallying 3 goals and 4 assists, helping Barcelona win the 2017-2018 La Liga title. He also helped the Spanish club lift back-to-back Copa del Ray trophies (2016-2017, 2017-2018) and the 2016 Supercopa de España.
Gomes also appeared for Valencia CF on loan before joining Barcelona at the beginning of the 2014-15 season. In 78 matches, Gomes tallied eight goals and eight assists before his loan spell was made a permanent transfer in June of 2015.
“André is a payer who possess exceptional tactical and technical abilities, displayed at the highest level of European football. André’s experience, leadership and professionalism will strengthen our midfield and will have an impact across our roster,” said Crew General Manager Issa Tall.
With Lille, Gomes appeared in 53 matches across all competitions, recording four goals and two assists. Just before moving to France, he appeared in 114 matches for Everton over five seasons, notching four goals and seven assists.
Gomes grew up in the SL Benfica youth academy, scoring 9 goals and assisting 8 in just 17 matches with Benfica’s second team before making his pro debut in October of 2012. Across all competitions, Gomes racked up four goals in 41 appearances, helping the Portuguese club win a domestic treble in 2014.
Gomes will join the Black & Gold pending receipt of his International Transfer Certificate and P-1 visa.
The Crew is in action Saturday night to kick off their 2026 MLS campaign against the Portland Timbers. Kickoff is slated for 10:30 p.m. EDT. You can watch the match on Apple TV.
MASSIVE REPORT 
First, thank you for the report. This is fantastic news to help address a very specific need. I’m glad we addressed the midfield.
It’s interesting to have heard the Pat Murphy interview with Issa Tall just one day ago. He was clearly signaling he was ok with a “wait and see” approach to the roster. He seemed to want to let the coach evaluate things and address later. Hours later, Gomes is signed.
I really like and believe in Issa Tall. He’s thoughtful, smart, and clearly has a vision for the club.
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