Real Madrid Icon Stuns Football World with Surprise Bundesliga Switch
Former Real Madrid player Lucas Vázquez has caught supporters off guard with his upcoming destination after departing the Santiago Bernabéu last month, as he prepares to join 2023–24 Bundesliga title holders Bayer Leverkusen.
Vázquez dedicated 18 years to the organization he entered at age 16 and accumulated 508 matches across all tiers from Real Madrid C onwards, featuring 402 times for the first team. However, he departed Los Blancos after a brief contract extension that covered the FIFA Club World Cup.
Following several weeks of rest and consideration of his alternatives, Fabrizio Romano reports that Vázquez is close to being announced by Leverkusen. A medical examination has reportedly been finalized and a two-year deal has been reached.
Vázquez reached 34 years old in July and many anticipated the winger converted to right-back at this career stage would move to the Middle East for a lucrative pre-retirement opportunity. The Saudi Pro League represents the clear option, with former Madrid captain Nacho moving to Al Qadsiah after his comparable Bernabéu departure in 2024. Joselu, on the other hand, transferred to Al Gharafa in the Qatar Stars League.
However, Vázquez believed he continues to have value in one of Europe's premier five divisions.
It's entirely plausible that previous Leverkusen coach Xabi Alonso might have promoted his former club to the five-time UEFA Champions League champion. The German team also lost Jeremie Frimpong to Liverpool at the beginning of the summer and had not yet secured a direct substitute.
A Real Madrid right-back moving to Bayer Leverkusen has occurred previously. Dani Carvajal was transferred to the club in 2012 before he had even featured in a senior match in the Spanish capital, departing for merely €5 million ($5.8 million at current rates). Importantly, Madrid incorporated a buyback provision in that agreement and activated it for €6.5 million just one year later following an exceptional campaign.