According to Fichajes, Castello Lukeba may have a decision on his hands with regards to choosing the right club for his future in the summer. Arsenal are the latest to enter the race for the Frenchman with a €80 million release clause, with Real Madrid also interested in signing the left-footed star.
Castello Lukeba has lived up to his promise as one of the top defensive talents coming out of France. Having graduated from Lyon’s academy, the 23-year-old has been shining for RB Leipzig since his move there in the summer of 2023, and now, he could be on the move as a host of top teams are showing an interest.
Chelsea are one of those keen, and could look at the possibility of a summer deal, while others like Liverpool have also looked at the 23-year-old defender. RB Leipzig are protected by an €80 million release clause in his contract, but earlier stories stated they could accept a lesser valuation in the region of €60 million, something the current report reiterates.
Real Madrid have been looking at Lukeba as a big option for their backline, and were regarded as the favourites to land the €80 million-rated Bundesliga defender. The idea of having a young defender on top of their summer signing of Dean Huijsen points squarely at a revamp of the backline, as the likes of Antonio Rudiger and David Alaba could depart soon.
Real Madrid are in the market for a left-footed centre-back, as Lukeba is widely seen as one of the emerging talents in his position. The Spanish giants have the financial capacity to pay the €60 million fee being reported in the story, but they face a big competitor in the race ahead.
Arsenal are reportedly interested in signing Lukeba and are confident about landing the left-sided defender. The Gunners are stacked with quality options at the back, especially with left-footers, as the links to the Leipzig star will cause a bit of confusion.
Given that Lukeba is one of the top-rated left-footed centre-backs in Europe, it’s no surprise to see the Gunners making their case in the race. Arsenal are apparently confident of bringing the €80 million-rated Bundesliga defender as they have the financial might as well as a sporting project that would support Lukeba’s career path, although it’s also difficult to see them pip Real Madrid should they make a serious offer.
