MADRID — Real Madrid says it has bought winger Lucas Vazquez back from fellow Spanish club Espanyol and signed him to a five-year contract.
The 24-year-old Vazquez came up through Madrid’s youth teams before playing last season at Espanyol on loan.
Espanyol had exercised a clause to purchase Vazquez, but Madrid then reached a deal with the Barcelona-based club to buy him back.
Vazquez is Madrid’s third move to reinforce its squad under new coach Rafa Benitez. It has also brought midfielder Casemiro back from loan to FC Porto, and completed the transfer of defender Danilo from the Portuguese club.
Vazquez scored four goals in 39 matches for Espanyol last season, helping it reach the semifinals of the Copa del Rey.
He will now have to compete with Cristiano Ronaldo and Gareth Bale for playing time.