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 on 1 July 2026 and is understood to be on the radar of the Thessaloniki club as they look to add experience to their back line.
Luckassen’s availability on a free is thought to be a key factor in PAOK’s interest, with his market value last listed at around €1m. The former PSV Eindhoven defender has built up extensive top-flight experience across Europe, including spells in the Eredivisie, Bundesliga, Belgian Jupiler Pro League, Turkey’s Super Lig, Israel and Cyprus.
The Amsterdam-born centre-back was part of the Pafos side that won the Cypriot championship in the 2024-25 season, adding to a trophy collection that also includes a Dutch league title and Dutch Super Cup with PSV, as well as an Israeli championship with Maccabi Tel Aviv. His career has also featured appearances in the Champions League, Europa League and Europa Conference League.
Most recently, Luckassen has been involved at the highest international level, making two appearances and scoring once at the 2026 World Cup. That combination of tournament exposure and club success is viewed as strengthening his case for a move to a club with regular European ambitions.
No agreement has yet been reached and the deal remains at the rumour stage, with Luckassen still a free agent and able to negotiate with interested clubs.
