Former Brisbane Roar and Caltex Socceroo defender Luke De Vere is Ufuk Talay’s latest recruit as Wellington Phoenix boss.
De Vere, 29, has penned a one-year deal at the Phoenix after he was one of 14 players released by new Brisbane coach Robbie Fowler in April's post-season clean out.
The centre back played 110 times across two stints with the Queenslanders (2008-2011 and 2014-2019) either side of a four-season tenure in the K-League tenure with Gyeongnam FC.
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He has made just 14 appearances over the past two Hyundai A-League seasons, but De Vere is ready to challenge for regular minutes in New Zealand – and potentially step into the vacant role left by departed club captain Andrew Durante, who left the Kiwis last week.
"This new challenge in Wellington represents a really exciting opportunity for me,” he told the club website.
"It’s easy to continue playing in an environment you feel comfortable in but I feel that I always rise to a new challenge and I’m looking forward to beginning this journey in Wellington."
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De Vere is Wellington coach Talay’s fourth signing of the off-season, having secured the services of former Western Sydney Wanderers forward Jaushua Sotirio last week, as well as acquiring All Whites goalkeeper Stefan Marinovic from Bristol City and Young Socceroos fullback Walter Scott from Perth Glory.
“Luke is a highly experienced defender in this competition so his knowledge and attitude will be crucial as we look to progress on from next season," Talay said.
“At only 29, Luke is one of the most accomplished centre backs in the league will no doubt be a huge asset here in Wellington."
