Born in Bissau, Portuguese Guinea, Reinaldo spent his entire professional career in Portugal.
After starting out in the lower leagues with SC Vila Real he played four years in the second division, with F.C.
Benfica in 1978, as the Lisbon side was coached by English John Mortimore, and wasted no time making an impact alongside legendary Nené, scoring 32 league goals in his first two-season combined and eventually helping Benfica to the conquest of three major titles, including the double in the 1980–81 campaign; his official debut came in a home game against F.C.
After leaving Benfica, with official totals of 116 games and 59 goals, Reinaldo represented Boavista FC, S.C. Braga, G.D. Estoril Praia (division two) and Varzim SC.
Guinea-born Reinaldo was capped for Portugal six times, scoring one goal.