He arrived at Real Madrid a young star, came close to retirement and is now looking for a new team

He may have fallen into oblivion over the years, but it was once the common consensus that the Cruzeiro man would lead Real Madrid's midfield for several years. However, his time in the Spanish capital didn't go to plan.

After starring for the Brazilian team, he arrived at the Bernabeu at the tender age of 22. A shy boy from humble origins, but with the experience of having carried the weight of Cruzeiro on his shoulders despite his youth.

He joined a Real Madrid squad in a period of change and barely made nine appearances for the 'Blancos'. Not even 500 minutes. He looked for a more important role elsewhere and Ligue 1 side Marseille offered it to him. He went from better to worse, despite featuring in 33 matches for the French team.

A serious heart condition found during a routine medical examination completely changed his career. He came close to putting an end to his playing days but then managed to come back. He still didn't have a place at Madrid, who didn't have the patience to wait for the Brazilian to blossom. Cruzeiro gave him a chance on an 18-month loan deal.

His contract runs until June but, after another sparkling start, the midfielder's performances have began to dissipate. He seek for a change of scene in January, looking for a new challenge in Europe to bring him closer to Real Madrid.

Real Madrid swooped in ahead of other suitors to sign the midfielder who was the talk of the town in 2013. Nowadays, he struggles to start for Cruzeiro. The rollercoaster ride that is Lucas Silva's career could bring him back for a third opportunity.