Arsenal are emerging as a serious contender for Castello Lukeba and rival Real Madrid for the Frenchman’s signature ahead of the summer.
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 him.
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 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 Antonio Rudiger and David Alaba could depart soon.
Real Madrid are in the market for a left-footed centre-back, and 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 to chase Castello Lukeba?
Arsenal are reportedly interested in signing Lukeba and are confident about landing the left-sided defender in a €60 million deal. The Gunners are stacked with quality options at the back, especially left-footers, and 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 is no surprise to see Arsenal making their case in the race. The Gunners are apparently confident of bringing the €80 million-rated Frenchman as they have the financial might as well as a sporting project that would support his career path, although it is also difficult to see them pip Real Madrid should Los Blancos make a serious offer.
