Fabio Vieira has completed his return to FC Porto on a season-long loan from Arsenal.

The 24-year-old midfielder, who touched down at Francisco Sá Carneiro Airport earlier today, is back at the club where he made his name, having undergone a medical at Estádio do Dragão before being unveiled as Porto’s latest reinforcement.

Vieira’s move marks a significant chapter in his career, rejoining Porto just two years after leaving for Arsenal in a £35 million transfer.

During his time at Arsenal, the Portuguese international showed glimpses of his potential but struggled to secure regular starts under Mikel Arteta.

Limited mostly to substitute appearances, Vieira’s playing time was further reduced this summer as Arsenal strengthened their midfield options.

CARSON, CALIFORNIA - JULY 24: Fabio Vieira #21 of Arsenal FC celebrates after scoring a goal against AFC Bournemouth during the first half at Dignity Health Sports Park on July 24, 2024 in Carson, California. (Photo by Orlando Ramirez/Getty Images)
CARSON, CALIFORNIA – JULY 24: Fabio Vieira #21 of Arsenal FC celebrates after scoring a goal against AFC Bournemouth during the first half at Dignity Health Sports Park on July 24, 2024 in Carson, California. (Photo by Orlando Ramirez/Getty Images)

Porto have taken on the full responsibility of Vieira’s €1.5 million net salary for the duration of the loan, a considerable financial commitment as they aim to strengthen their midfield ahead of a busy season.

The deal also includes a €500,000 bonus payable to Arsenal if Porto win the Primeira Liga this season.

Notably, there is no option to buy included in the agreement, meaning Vieira is expected to return to Arsenal next summer, where he is contracted until 2027.

Arsenal's Fabio Vieira celebrates after scoring their fourth goal from the penalty spot during the English Premier League football match between Arsenal and Sheffield United at the Emirates Stadium in London on October 28, 2023. (Photo by GLYN KIRK/AFP via Getty Images)
Arsenal’s Fabio Vieira celebrates after scoring their fourth goal from the penalty spot during the English Premier League football match between Arsenal and Sheffield United at the Emirates Stadium in London on October 28, 2023. (Photo by GLYN KIRK/AFP via Getty Images)

Vieira’s return has sparked excitement among Porto fans who fondly remember his standout 2020/21 season, during which he scored seven goals and provided 16 assists.

His creativity and ability to influence games in the final third were key to Porto’s success, and the club hopes he can replicate that form in his second stint.

Vieira will wear the number 10 shirt, left vacant by Francisco Conceição’s move to Juventus. He previously wore the number 50 with Porto.

For Porto manager Vítor Bruno, Vieira’s arrival is a major boost, but the club’s transfer activity is far from over.

With the Portuguese transfer window closing in a few days, Porto remain active in the market, particularly in defence. The departures of Fábio Cardoso and David Carmo, coupled with Pepe’s retirement, have left gaps at the back that need addressing.

While negotiations continue for left-back Francisco Moura from Famalicão, no agreement has been reached yet, leaving Porto with work to do before the deadline.

For Vieira, this loan move represents an opportunity to regain confidence and consistent playing time. His vision and technical ability in the final third could be pivotal for a Porto side that has had a mixed start to the season.

With high expectations surrounding his return, Vieira will be keen to prove himself once again in front of the Estádio do Dragão faithful.

With the season already underway, all eyes will be on how the midfielder slots back into a side with ambitions for both domestic and European success.