Derrick Luckassen: Ghana-Netherlands defender linked with PAOK move

Ghana-Netherlands centre-back Derrick Luckassen, currently without a club after leaving Cypriot champions Pafos FC, is being linked with a move to Greek Super League side PAOK. The 31-year-old defender became a free agent at the start of July and is understood to be under consideration in Thessaloniki as PAOK assess experienced options at the back.

Luckassen’s availability as a free signing is expected to appeal to clubs looking to reinforce their squads late in the window, with his current market valuation standing at around €1m. He departed Pafos on 1 July after helping the club win the Cypriot league title in the 2024-25 season, adding to a trophy collection that already includes an Eredivisie title and Dutch Super Cup with PSV Eindhoven and an Israeli championship with Maccabi Tel Aviv.

The Amsterdam-born defender has built up substantial experience across European leagues, featuring in the Eredivisie, Bundesliga, Belgian top flight, Turkey’s Super Lig, Israel and Cyprus. He has also appeared in all three major UEFA club competitions, including the Champions League, Europa League and Conference League.

Luckassen’s form on the international stage has remained notable, with the defender making two appearances and scoring once at the 2026 World Cup. That recent exposure, combined with his track record of contributing goals from centre-back – including five in 46 league appearances during his time in Cyprus – is thought to have sustained interest from clubs at a high level.

For now, Luckassen remains unattached after his exit from Pafos earlier this month, leaving him free to negotiate directly with PAOK or any other suitors without the need for a transfer fee.