Dimitri Lavalée returns to Standard on two-year deal

Defender Dimitri Lavalée has returned to Standard de Liège on a two‑year contract with a one‑year option, after winning the Austrian league in 2024 and 2025 and the Austrian Cup in 2024 with Sturm Graz. The 29‑year‑old expressed his joy at rejoining the club where he began his career.

Lavalée is the third summer signing for Standard, following attacker Bruny Nsimba, whose transfer was completed in March, and midfielder Laurens Goemaere. The central defender’s arrival adds experience to a squad that has already reinforced multiple positions.

Born in Soumagne, Lavalée spent his formative years at Standard from 2003 to 2016, before making his Jupiler Pro League debut with the Rouches. His early development at the club laid the foundation for his later professional career.

While at Sturm Graz, Lavalée became a double Austrian champion in 2024 and 2025 and lifted the Austrian Cup in 2024. He also featured in Champions League and Europa League matches, gaining valuable European experience.

Having turned down a three‑season extension from Sturm Graz, Lavalée signed a contract covering the next two seasons with an additional year optional. He announced his return in the club’s official statement, expressing his desire to help his “club of the heart”.

"Je suis très heureux de revenir là où tout a commencé pour moi. Grâce à l’expérience acquise durant mon parcours, je souhaite maintenant aider mon club de cœur à atteindre ses objectifs et je me réjouis de retrouver la ferveur liégeoise", said Lavalée. Sporting director Marc Wilmots added, "Je suis très content de ramener au club un défenseur belge de qualité qui sait jouer dans différents systèmes. Dimitri a l’ADN du Standard et une excellente mentalité. Il a également réussi à s’imposer à l’étranger où il a remporté des trophées et a disputé des matchs de Champions League et d’Europa League. Son expérience sera bénéfique, notamment pour encadrer jeunes."

Standard continues to search for a left‑back and a creative midfielder to further strengthen the squad. The club has secured its three new arrivals without paying any transfer fee, underscoring a cost‑effective approach to the market.