According to Fichajes, Arsenal are targeting a move for Castello Lukeba in the summer, with RB Leipzig likely to demand at least €60 million. The left-footed, highly rated centre-back is on the list of defensive targets for Mikel Arteta, who wants to continue strengthening the backline further.
Castello Lukeba was one of the opportunistic signings that RB Leipzig made in the summer of 2023, as they needed to replace the outgoing Joško Gvardiol. The French defender has not only succeeded the Croatian to a point, but has also established himself as one of the top names in the Bundesliga.
The left-footed defender has plenty of interest in the market, with the likes of Real Madrid and Chelsea keen on signing him in the summer. RB Leipzig are protected by a contract until 2029, which gives them leeway in negotiations as big clubs are expected to make enquiries in the summer.
Arsenal have been heavily linked in Lukeba of late, with Mikel Arteta particularly keen to add the French defender to the mix. The Gunners have been told to pay at least €60 million to sign the 23-year-old Bundesliga defensive sensation, which may not prove to be an issue for the north Londoners.
There are reports stating Arsenal may have held discussions for Lukeba, which further tends to suggest their interest could be serious. Whether the Gunners need another left-footed centre-back remains the question, but knowing Arteta, he would not bat an eyelid if an opportunity arises in the market to bring in a top defensive talent.
Arsenal have by far the best defensive setup in world football, owing to Arteta’s persistent push to keep adding top talent. Considering Lukeba’s profile, the left-footed, 23-year-old Bundesliga defensive sensation could be seen to cover or compete with the likes of Gabriel Magalhães in the future, but could that open the door to a sale?
The €60 million price point would not deter Arsenal from opening negotiations with Leipzig for the defender, but could that lead to a departure from the left side of their defence? In truth, Arsenal are probably lacking direct cover or competition for Gabriel’s position, and it may well be a case of adding rather than replacing an existing star — meaning a move for Lukeba could very much be on the cards.
