LASK has signed 18‑year‑old centre‑back Manoël Verhaeghe from the Belgian Challenger Pro League. The contract runs until 2030 and the young Belgian will join the first‑team squad immediately.

Who is Manoël Verhaeghe?

Manoël Verhaeghe, standing 1.87 m, comes from the youth academy of Royale Union Saint‑Gilloise. In his debut professional season he made 25 appearances in the Challenger Pro League, showing himself as an aggressive, athletic defender. He has already featured for Belgian youth national teams and the DR‑Congo U‑19, highlighting his international experience.

Why does the signing matter for LASK?

The club currently sits third in the Austrian Bundesliga, with 37 points from 22 games, just one point behind leaders Sturm Graz. With 32 goals scored and 30 conceded (+2 goal difference) LASK is fighting for the top spot. Verhaeghe is expected to stabilise the defence, add more physical presence in duels and increase the dynamism of the back line – a direct boost for the title race.

What does the sporting director say?

Sporting director Dino Buric said LASK has acquired a modern centre‑back with ball skills and strong physicality. He stressed that Verhaeghe is a prospect who will be given time to integrate into the squad. Buric views him as a building block for the coming years, especially for the hoped‑for Champions League qualification.

What’s next after the transfer?

Verhaeghe is likely to start training with the black‑white side and could feature in the upcoming home match against Rapid Wien. Fans can expect an athletic, hard‑working newcomer who will further professionalise LASK’s defence.

LASK’s current standing – third place, 37 points, 11 wins, 4 draws, 7 losses – shows that every defensive upgrade is vital to close the narrow gap to the league leaders.