Defender makes late switch, leaves Vasco for Libertadores club | OneFootball

The reshaping of the Vasco da Gama squad for 2026 is in full swing, and this past Sunday (04), another departure was confirmed, but with a twist of cruelty in the transfer market. Defender Lucas Oliveira, who played for the Cruz-Maltino last season, terminated his contract with the club and decided on his future. The surprise came with his destination: expected to join Ceará, the player changed his mind at the last minute and signed with Mirassol.

+ Out of Vasco's plans, player will train separately and attracts interest from Chapecoense

The Turnaround and Vasco's Profit

According to journalist Venê Casagrande, Lucas Oliveira had already agreed with Ceará. However, the defender received an offer from Mirassol in the last hours and chose to sign with the “Leão Caipira.” The main reason for the choice was the opportunity to play in the Copa Libertadores in 2026, a first-time competition for the São Paulo club.

For Vasco, the club change did not alter the business model. Vasco's management accepted the amicable termination, releasing the athlete for free, but retained 30% of the economic rights aiming for a future sale. The final decision was solely up to the player and his representatives. In Ceará, the news was not well received: the “Vovô” management reportedly learned about the withdrawal “through the press.”

Discreet Tenure and Future

Lucas Oliveira leaves São Januário with modest numbers. He played only 15 matches (starting in seven) and a total of 702 minutes on the field last season, failing to establish himself. The defender, who has played for Cruzeiro, Atlético-GO, Bangu, Valladolid (Spain), and Kyoto Sanga (Japan), has already traveled to undergo medical exams and sign with the new team.

At Mirassol, he will join a squad that is strengthening for a historic year, with the arrivals of midfielder Yuri Lara and forward André Luís. The team will compete in the Paulistão, Brasileirão, Copa do Brasil, and the continental glory.

Player failed to establish himself at Colina – Photo: Matheus Lima/Vasco

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