Bayer Leverkusen sign Real Madrid legend Lucas Vazquez on free transfer | OneFootball

Bayer Leverkusen have signed Lucas Vazquez on a free transfer following his departure from Real Madrid. The 34-year-old right-back has agreed a contract until June 2027 and will wear the number 21 shirt.

Vazquez underwent his medical earlier this week and the deal was finalised on Tuesday. The move comes after Leverkusen ended talks with OGC Nice over Jonathan Clauss, with the French club refusing to lower their asking price.

Leverkusen quickly turned to Vazquez, who brings vast experience after nearly two decades at the Santiago Bernabeu.

The Spaniard made 402 appearances for Real Madrid and won 23 trophies, including five Champions Leagues and four La Liga titles.

He featured 53 times last season alone, starting in both domestic and European competitions.

Vazquez leaves Madrid as one of the club’s most decorated servants, having been described in their farewell statement as a ‘true legend’.

The defender said he was persuaded to join by glowing recommendations from former Madrid teammate Dani Carvajal and ex-Real midfielder Xabi Alonso.

‘I’ve heard a lot about Leverkusen and the ambition here,’ Vazquez said after signing.

‘The club is hungry for success and focused on the biggest targets, which fits perfectly with how I see the game.’

Sporting director Simon Rolfes hailed the signing as a major boost for Erik ten Hag’s squad.

‘With Lucas Vazquez we are adding a technically strong and tactically smart player who has won everything there is to win,’ Rolfes said. ‘His experience, vision and leadership will have a big influence on our team.’

Vazquez’s arrival follows a turbulent summer for the Bundesliga runners-up. Ten Hag replaced Xabi Alonso as head coach after Leverkusen lost their grip on the league title to Bayern Munich.

Several key players have also departed, including Jeremie Frimpong, Florian Wirtz, Jonathan Tah and Granit Xhaka. Liverpool signed Frimpong earlier in the window, leaving Leverkusen in need of a reliable option on the right flank.

Nathan Tella, who covered the position last season, made it clear he preferred to play further forward. Vazquez is seen as the solution, offering stability and creativity in wide areas.

Leverkusen’s new era under Ten Hag began with a 2-1 defeat to Hoffenheim last weekend.

The Spaniard is expected to go straight into contention for their next league match as Leverkusen aim to stabilise after a summer of upheaval.