The 29-year-old has signed a two-year deal with the Phoenix, after leaving the Reds due to a lack of first-team opportunities at the end of last season.

Pantelis, who made 101 A-League appearances for the Reds, is a key signing for Wellington after youngster Marco Rojas left to join the Melbourne Victory.

It's the club's second signing of the off-season after former Perth Glory fullback Jimmy Downey signed the club a fortnight ago after a spell with Sparta Rotterdam.

"Lucas is a balanced, quick, left-sided player who has played a major role at a successful club," Phoenix coach Ricki Herbert said.

"We have been talking to him for a while and it is great to get the deal over the line."