Tornike Shengelia, one of European basketball’s most dynamic forwards, could be headed to FC Barcelona next season, according to recent reports from Sportando. The 33-year-old Georgian star, who averaged an impressive 15.6 points and 5.0 rebounds per game in the 2024-25 EuroLeague season with Virtus Segafredo Bologna, is a prime target for the Blaugrana as they look to bolster their frontcourt.
Shengelia’s 2+1 contract with Virtus, signed in 2022, is set to expire on June 30, 2025, fueling speculation about his next move. Barcelona, aiming to reshape their roster, reportedly sees Shengelia as a key piece, with doubts surrounding the futures of Chimezie Metu (a free agent) and Willy Hernangomez (under contract until 2026 but rumored to be on the way out). Sources indicate that the Blaugrana are close to securing Shengelia with a lucrative three-year deal, a move that would pair his versatility and leadership with Barcelona’s ambitions in the EuroLeague.
A veteran of the EuroLeague with stints at Baskonia, CSKA Moscow, and Virtus, Shengelia has earned eight MVP of the Round awards and was named to the 2017-18 All-EuroLeague First Team. His recent heroics for Georgia, including leading them to EuroBasket 2025 qualification with standout performances (24 points vs. Finland, 19 points and 13 rebounds vs. Denmark), underscore his enduring impact.
