The striker has not signaled a return to Macul until an offer from Brazil lands on the table, a scenario that could push the matter toward FIFA’s arbitration.
Early 2023 brought troubling news for Colo Colo. The club’s representative, speaking on behalf of Juan Martin Lucero, indicated the player would not report back to the Monumental unless a Brazilian proposal materialized. The club, meanwhile, was reluctant to let the former Vélez Sársfield forward depart, a stance that could elevate the dispute to FIFA.
According to a report cited by Third, the 2022 league top scorer, Daniel Morón, who serves as the team’s sporting director, and coach Gustavo Quinteros, have informed the player of their intention to recruit him for Fortaleza. Colo Colo contends that the option to purchase the Argentine, valued at US$900,000, had already been exercised with Fortín, and that the $1 million exit clause claimed by the player and his agent does not exist in the contract.
In this context, the club’s leadership is prepared to pursue the matter in the courts, on behalf of both the Mendoza-born striker and Colo Colo, who seek the player’s services. The expectation is that the player could be disqualified from appearing for a different club while the legal process unfolds. Morón confirmed that the team has dismissed the player from duty.
“He has a contract until the end of 2025 and there is no exit clause,” asserted a spokesperson. “The contract contains no exit clause at any point. This breach harms the club’s financial and sporting heritage.” The club’s president indicated that they would consult lawyers who specialize in this area and warned that the player’s actions could have serious consequences for his career. “We will defend all our rights with the full weight of the law.”
What punishment does Lucero risk?
The governing bodies have precedent in this arena, and the 31-year-old forward faces a potential delay in his career. A notable comparison is Ariel Ortega’s 2002 transfer from River Plate to Fenerbahçe. Ortega could not play official matches for a year as the Turkish club pursued the registration issue. The dispute centered on Ortega leaving with a contract set to run through 2006; Fenerbahçe gave him a short window to return. When negotiations stalled, FIFA intervened, suspending him until December 30, 2003, and ordering damages of $11 million for breach of contract to be paid to the Turkish league.
“Ariel Ortega breached his employment contract with Fenerbahçe on February 13, 2003 without a valid reason and must pay $11 million to the club in damages. The player is suspended under the applicable article and will not be able to play for any club before December 30, 2003,” stated the then spokesperson for the governing body. Lucero currently maintains a connection with Popular until December 2023.
Amid the controversy, the Mendoza native, who scored 24 goals and provided six assists last season as Pedrero’s side clinched the title, did not report for the pre-season in Buenos Aires. The team was preparing for the Super Cup against Magallanes and gearing up for the National Championship. Lucero’s potential exit coincides with the departures of three key starters: Óscar Opazo, Gabriel Costa, and Gabriel Suazo.
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