Gianluca Lapadula Joins Universitario de Deportes
June 23, 2026 · Lorena Torres
Gianluca Lapadula, the Peruvian striker, departs Italy to join Universitario de Deportes, making his debut in the Peruvian league after representing Peru 42 times.
Gianluca Lapadula, the accomplished Peruvian forward, is set to embark on a new chapter in his football career by joining Universitario de Deportes. At the age of 36, Lapadula leaves Italy behind to play in the Peruvian league for the first time, despite having donned the national team jersey 42 times since 2020, scoring 10 goals. This move comes after a year of speculation and interest from top Peruvian clubs, including Alianza Lima and Universitario.
Image
Lapadula's decision to return to Peru marks a significant moment in his career, as he aims to conclude his playing days in front of the fans who have cherished his performances for the national team, known as the Blanquirroja. His journey in football has seen him rise from Italy's lower divisions to the heights of Serie A, where he notably played for AC Milan, scoring eight goals in 27 appearances. This transfer to Universitario represents his second stint abroad, following a successful season in Slovenia with Gorica over a decade ago.
Under the guidance of coach Hector Cuper, Universitario de Deportes has made a concerted effort to secure Lapadula's signature, ensuring he joins the squad in time for the Clausura tournament. This addition to the team comes after Lapadula terminated his contract with Spezia, a move motivated by the lack of qualification for the upcoming World Cup. As Lapadula prepares to make his league debut, he aims to prove his enduring capability to thrill fans with goals and memorable performances.
TAGS
Related Stories

Mehdi Taremi's Goal Disallowed in Belgium vs Iran Clash at World Cup 2026
In a tense Group G encounter at the 2026 FIFA World Cup in Inglewood, USA, Iran's Mehdi Taremi saw his goal disallowed after VAR intervention. Both teams remain scoreless after their first matches, with key upcoming fixtures against New Zealand and Egypt on June 27.
2h ago · Óscar Ruiz
Spain Display Dominance in World Cup Clash Against Saudi Arabia
Spain bounced back from a disappointing draw against Cape Verde to dominate Saudi Arabia in their second group match, with Mikel Oyarzabal shining with two goals and an assist.
2h ago · Fernando Pérez