Vasco sign young star for R$389m, set massive release clause | OneFootball

Vasco da Gama has taken another important step in its policy of valuing its youth divisions and protecting its assets. This Thursday (1), the board acted decisively in the market and exercised the purchase option for midfielder Luiz Lócio, who is just 19 years old. The player, who was on loan from Resende and had a contract only until February, has now signed permanently with the Gigante da Colina for three seasons, ensuring his stay at São Januário.

+ Vasco offers US$ 1.5 million for player, but payment terms stall the deal

Vasco’s Figures and Release Clause

What stands out most in this operation are the figures involved, worthy of major international prospects. To acquire 60% of the economic rights of the athlete, Vasco shelled out R$ 3.7 million. However, the big news is the contractual protection: the new release clause has been set at 60 million euros. At the current exchange rate, this amount is around R$ 389 million (approximately R$ 400 million), a clear message to the international market that the club will not make it easy for their gem to leave.

Career Path and Planning

Born in Patos, Paraíba, Luiz Lócio began his career at Resende and had a stint at Atlético-MG in 2024 before arriving in Rio de Janeiro in March last year. His adaptation was quick and the numbers justify the investment: in 43 matches for the Under-20 team, he scored seven goals and became a key player for the squad.

The sports plan for Lócio is ambitious and immediate. The midfielder is already registered to compete in the Copa São Paulo de Futebol Júnior (Copinha), but his near future goes beyond the youth team. Fernando Diniz’s coaching staff is considering using the youngster in the early rounds of the Campeonato Carioca. Since the main squad had a late vacation, the State Championship will serve as a laboratory to observe the player’s performance in a competitive professional environment, validating the board’s bet.

Luiz Lócio is Vasco’s new gem – Photo: Vinicius Gentil

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This article was translated into English by Artificial Intelligence. You can read the original version in 🇧🇷 here.