Ghana international Derrick Luckassen on Friday 24th July, 2026, completed a free transfer to Serbian champions Red Star Belgrade, signing a three-year deal after leaving Cypriot side Pafos FC.
The 31-year-old centre-back becomes the latest addition to the Red Star squad as they prepare for the new domestic and European campaign. He will wear the number 32 shirt.
Shortly after completing the move, Lukassen talked about his first impressions after signing the contract.
“The impressions are really good. Red Star is a big team and a big club, the first impressions are really great – said Lukassen in his first interview.
Lukassen also revealed that before coming to our club, he spoke with Ognjen Mimović.
“I called him and told him that Red Star wanted me. He had only nice things to say about the club and was very positive. That meant a lot to me. After talking with Mimović, I got a really good feeling and was happy about it.” he said.
Lukasen also spoke about the club’s ambitions on the domestic and international stage.
“I think we can achieve great results. As I said, Red Star is a big and well-known club. It already achieves good results, and I hope that together we can be even more successful.”
The strong defender revealed what he considers his greatest qualities.
“I try to be an ‘aggressive’ defender, to win duels, but also to be good with the ball at my feet, to make good passes and help the team in every possible way. I would highlight that as my main traits.”
Finally, Red Star’s new signing also had a clear message for all the Red and White fans.
“I want to thank them for their trust. I hope we have a successful season, that we enjoy it together, and that I’ll be ready to help the team in every possible way, Lucasen concluded.
Derik Lucasen was born on July 3, 1995, in Amsterdam. He developed as a footballer in the youth categories of AZ Alkmaar, where he also started his senior career and, with impressive performances, drew attention, leading to a transfer to PSV Eindhoven. During his extensive international career, he also played for the German club Hertha, Anderlecht, Kasimpasa, and Karagumruk, as well as for Maccabi Tel Aviv and the Cypriot club Pafos.
