- Castello Lukeba has €80 million release clause
- The Frenchman linked with Arsenal and Manchester United
- RB Leipzig open to sale
RB Leipzig defender Castello Lukeba could be on his way out of the Bundesliga club at the end of the season, and Manchester United are reportedly leading the race for his signature.
The 23-year-old French centre-back has impressed during his time in Germany, and his potential availability has attracted the attention of several top European sides.
According to CaughtOffside, Manchester United rate the player highly and believe the 23-year-old defender could be ideal for them. Lukeba has an €80 million release clause in his deal, but the player could be signed for a reasonable fee.
Arsenal are also closely monitoring the French defender, although they face strong competition. A new centre-back might be on the cards for United this summer despite Harry Maguire’s contract extension.
Manchester United Lead Arsenal in Lukeba Race
Leipzig and Lukeba agree that the defender will leave the club this summer. According to TEAMtalk, his leading suitors from the Premier League have now been formally notified.
Lukeba’s contract includes a release clause valued at around £70 million (€80m). However, Leipzig is willing to approve a deal for closer to £55 million. Several top English sides, including United and Arsenal, are in contention and admire the Frenchman’s potential.
The French defender has made 78 appearances for Leipzig across all competitions, scoring two goals. This season, he has started 22 of his 23 Bundesliga appearances, playing 1,952 minutes.
Defensively, he has been solid, averaging 5 clearances and 1.3 interceptions per game. His passing stats are equally good, with accuracy at 90%. He has also helped his side keep eight clean sheets in the league this term.
What Lukeba Could Bring to Old Trafford
For Manchester United, the addition of Lukeba would add quality and depth to a defensive unit already featuring Lisandro Martinez, Leny Yoro and Ayden Heaven. The Frenchman likes to dribble and is good at keeping the ball. He is known for his preference to play short passes from the back.
The Reds have had problems of their own at the back this season. Martinez and De Ligt have missed several games with injuries. Maguire, who recently signed a new contract, has been a consistent performer but will need to be replaced in a year or two. Lukeba’s profile of a modern centre-back would certainly appeal to Michael Carrick if he gets the permanent job.
Carrick can link up Lukeba with the younger crop of Manchester United defenders including Yoro and Ayden Heaven.
Arsenal remain interested, but United’s position as frontrunners gives them a clear advantage. If the Red Devils can agree a fee in the region of £55 million, Lukeba could become one of the first major signings of the summer window. For now, the ball is in United’s court.
