The Cape Verdean international signed a contract with the Belgian club until 2028, leaving Portimonense after three seasons. Gent did not disclose the financial details, but according to A BOLA, Portimonense received around 5 million euros for 80 percent of the player's rights. The deal also reserves 20 percent of the player's economic rights for Portimonense.

Hélio Varela is set to sign a four-year contract with the Belgian club Gent, leaving 5 million euros in the coffers of Portimonense. Portimonense reserves 20 percent of the player's economic rights. The Belgian club improved its offer to reach an agreement.

Gent approached Portimonense to buy Hélio Varela, but their offer was lower than the €3.5 million offered by Talleres and was rejected.