RB Leipzig centre-back Castello Lukeba is being closely monitored by some of Europe’s biggest clubs, with Manchester United, Liverpool, Chelsea, and Real Madrid all expressing interest. Reports from Germany suggest the 22-year-old is eager for a high-profile move this summer.
Lukeba made the switch from Lyon to Leipzig in 2023 for €34 million after two impressive seasons in Ligue 1.
He quickly established himself as a key player in Leipzig’s defense, though his progress has been hampered by hamstring injuries this season, restricting him to just 11 Bundesliga appearances.
On the international stage, the Frenchman has earned one senior cap and was a part of France’s Olympic squad that secured a silver medal, narrowly losing the final to Spain. His performances at both club and international levels have strengthened his reputation, drawing attention from Europe’s elite.
According to Sport Bild, Real Madrid, Liverpool, Chelsea, and Manchester United are all in the mix for the highly-rated defender. Lukeba has a €90 million (£75 million) release clause that becomes active this summer, and he is reportedly hopeful that one of these clubs will trigger it.
Despite his talent and top-flight experience, concerns remain over his injury history and relative lack of silverware—his only major trophy to date being the DFL–Supercup.
Former Leipzig sporting director Max Eberl, now at Bayern Munich, highlighted Lukeba’s key attributes:
“He is left-footed and can operate in both a back-three and a back-four. His biggest strengths are his tackling, speed, positioning, and composure on the ball.”
Over the weekend, Lukeba played as the left-sided centre-back in a back-three as Leipzig secured a 2-0 victory over St. Pauli. With a crucial summer ahead, his next destination could be one of Europe’s biggest clubs.