Lucas Vazquez Joins Bayer Leverkusen on Free Transfer
Lucas Vazquez has officially joined Bayer Leverkusen on a free transfer following the expiration of his contract with Real Madrid this summer.
The 34-year-old winger, who has celebrated five Champions League victories and four La Liga titles during his time with Los Blancos, has signed a two-year contract with the Bundesliga club, now managed by Erik ten Hag.
Vazquez revealed that his decision to move was influenced by Xabi Alonso, the former Leverkusen manager who is currently at the helm of Real Madrid, as well as ex-teammate Dani Carvajal, who also played for Leverkusen during the 2012-13 season.
In a statement, Vazquez expressed his enthusiasm: "My discussions with the management confirmed what I’ve been told—the club is absolutely focused on winning, is hungry for success, and aims for the biggest targets."
He added, "That mindset aligns with my own, and I’m looking forward to pursuing further success at Leverkusen."
Having progressed through Real Madrid's academy and making his first-team debut in 2015, Vazquez accumulated 402 appearances and secured 20 trophies, including three Club World Cup titles.
A versatile player who has earned nine caps for Spain, he has played both as a winger and a right-back.
Last season, Vazquez featured in 32 matches in La Liga but saw limited action in the summer FIFA Club World Cup, making only two substitute appearances following the acquisition of Trent Alexander-Arnold from Liverpool.
On the other hand, Leverkusen has been in search of a full-back since Jeremie Frimpong's transfer to the Premier League champions in May. The German club, who previously secured the domestic league and cup double two seasons ago, also sold Florian Wirtz to Liverpool and Granit Xhaka to Sunderland this summer, while defender Jonathan Tah moved to rivals Bayern Munich on a free transfer.