A new era under Xabi Alonso at Real Madrid is set to bring significant changes to the squad, with several first-team players reportedly preparing for their departures this summer. Following the confirmed exits of Luka Modrić and Jesús Vallejo, long-serving full-back Lucas Vázquez is also expected to leave the Santiago Bernabéu.
Vázquez, 33, made 51 appearances for Real Madrid across all competitions during the 2024-25 season, showcasing his enduring versatility and commitment. However, with the arrival of Trent Alexander-Arnold from Liverpool, the competition at right-back has intensified, leading to the decision that Vázquez’s contract will not be renewed beyond the conclusion of the Club World Cup. This move signifies a clear shift in squad planning under the new coaching regime, prioritizing new acquisitions and reshaping the team’s dynamics.
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Come mid-July, Vázquez will become a free agent, prompting a crucial phase in his career as he weighs his next destination. While opportunities to remain in Spain may arise, reports suggest he is also considering broadening his horizons with a move abroad. Prominent Turkish journalist Yağız Sabuncuoğlu indicates that Turkish giants Fenerbahçe have already initiated discussions with Vázquez’s representatives to explore the terms of a potential deal.
Fenerbahçe reportedly views Vázquez as an excellent market opportunity. His extensive experience at the highest levels of European football, coupled with a well-documented winning mentality acquired during his illustrious career with Real Madrid, makes him an appealing target for the Süper Lig club.
If Vázquez were to make the switch to Istanbul, he would find himself under the management of Jose Mourinho. Interestingly, while Mourinho managed Real Madrid from 2010 to 2013, Vázquez’s first-team debut with the senior squad only came during the 2015-16 season, meaning the two never officially collaborated on the pitch in a senior capacity.
At this juncture, Vázquez’s preferred next step remains unconfirmed. Given his deep ties to Real Madrid, a move outside of Spain would not be entirely surprising, and this factor could certainly boost Fenerbahçe’s chances of securing his signature later in the summer.
For the immediate future, Lucas Vázquez is fully focused on his commitments with Real Madrid in the ongoing Club World Cup, where he is expected to serve as an alternate to Alexander-Arnold at right-back. Discussions about his long-term future are anticipated to intensify once the tournament concludes.
