Real Madrid have reportedly set their sights on RB Leipzig’s rising star, Castello Lukeba, as they search for reinforcement in a defense stretched by injuries and limited options.
Real Madrid eye Leipzig’s Castello Lukeba to bolster defense
With only three senior center-backs available this season – Antonio Rudiger, Eder Militao, and Jesus Vallejo – Madrid has faced a tightrope act in maintaining defensive stability.
While Rudiger and Militao remain mainstays, Vallejo’s sparse appearances have left manager Carlo Ancelotti turning to midfielder Aurelien Tchouameni to plug gaps when needed.
The injury situation further complicates Madrid’s defensive setup. David Alaba, their only natural left-footed center-back, is still making a slow comeback from an ACL injury sustained last year.
At 32, Alaba’s future with the club seems increasingly limited, spurring Real Madrid to look for younger, left-sided options to fill this crucial role.
Lukeba, only 21, fits the bill. The French international, who joined RB Leipzig from Lyon in 2023, has already made a significant impact, featuring in all of Leipzig’s Champions League matches this season.
His confident play and defensive prowess have earned him comparisons to former Leipzig defender Josko Gvardiol, now at Manchester City.
With a €90 million release clause in his recent contract extension, Lukeba’s future may hinge on whether Real Madrid is willing to negotiate a structured payment similar to Leipzig’s past deals.
However, Madrid is not alone in its interest; Premier League giants like Manchester United, Liverpool, Chelsea, and Newcastle are also monitoring Lukeba’s progress closely.
Madrid’s need for a strong left-footed defender may make them push harder, but the battle for Lukeba’s signature could well be one of Europe’s most intriguing transfer stories.
