Universitario de Deportes Signs Peruvian Forward Gianluca Lapadula for Clausura 2026

Peruvian club Universitario de Deportes announced the signing of forward Gianluca Lapadula, a prominent player for the Peruvian national team, for the upcoming Clausura 2026 season. The club aims to leverage Lapadula's experience, leadership, and goal-scoring ability to tackle the season's challenges.

Lapadula boasts a career largely developed in Italian football, where he represented numerous clubs including Pescara, AC Milan, Genoa, Lecce, Benevento, and Cagliari over more than a decade. His individual achievements include being the top scorer in Serie B with Pescara in the 2015-2016 season and again with Cagliari in the 2022-2023 campaign. His move to AC Milan after a successful stint with Pescara was highlighted by the club as a significant step in his career.

“

to face the challenges of the season and contribute experience, hierarchy, and goal-scoring ability

Since debuting for Peru in 2020, Lapadula has become a vital offensive force for the national team, known as 'La Blanquirroja.' He has earned 42 caps and scored 9 goals, playing a crucial role in Peru's run to the semifinals of the 2021 Copa América. His dedication on and off the field has forged a special connection with Peruvian fans, establishing him as one of the team's most representative figures in recent years.

Universitario stated that Lapadula's incorporation reflects the club's commitment to building a high-caliber squad capable of competing at the highest level. This move comes after the club narrowly missed out on the Apertura 2026 title, which was won by their historic rivals, Alianza Lima. The signing signals Universitario's ambition to contend strongly in the upcoming season.

“

His identification with the country, his commitment on and off the field, and his permanent dedication with the bicolor jersey have allowed him to build a special bond with the Peruvian fans, becoming one of the most representative footballers of the national team in recent years.