Liverpool Eye €60m Deal For Castello Lukeba Amid Premier League Tug Of War
Liverpool are once again dipping into the RB Leipzig talent pool with strong interest in Castello Lukeba, according to a report from CaughtOffside, who deserve full credit for the original story.
The 22 year old Frenchman has rapidly emerged as one of Europe’s most sought after young defenders. His assured performances in the Bundesliga have not gone unnoticed. As stated in the report, “Lukeba has a release clause worth €90m, which clubs see as too high, but it’s largely symbolic anyway – the real asking price is more like €60m.”
That figure brings him into range for several Premier League heavyweights, with Liverpool, Chelsea and Manchester United all watching closely. One source added: “Liverpool like him, but you can add Chelsea, Man United, Newcastle and Real Madrid to that list.”
Defensive Reinforcement Needed At Anfield
Liverpool’s lingering contract situation with Ibrahima Konaté adds urgency to the Reds’ search for a central defender. Should Konaté depart, replacing one French powerhouse with another makes strategic sense. Lukeba plays with the calm aggression that suits Arne Slot’s structure, while his ability to defend large spaces would allow Liverpool to maintain their high line without fear.
Leipzig have built a reputation for producing elite defenders. From Josko Gvardiol to Dayot Upamecano, the model is clear. Liverpool were early admirers of Lukeba last summer and their persistence suggests they view him as more than just an option.
Chelsea Also In The Frame
Chelsea’s interest is equally strong. Their current defensive unit remains in flux. Injuries to Wesley Fofana and Levi Colwill continue to unsettle any cohesion. The club are seeking long term reliability and Lukeba would represent a clear upgrade on Trevoh Chalobah and Tosin Adarabioyo.
Given the London club’s willingness to spend aggressively on future assets, Liverpool may need to act quickly to avoid being drawn into an auction.
Lukeba’s Decision Looms
The question now is which project appeals most. Liverpool offer stability, elite coaching and an immediate role in a title chasing side. Chelsea promise a long term rebuild with youthful energy but less certainty. There is also Real Madrid in the background, always lurking when elite young defenders become available.
Either way, a €60m fee for a high ceiling defender with Champions League experience could soon look like remarkable value.
Our View – Anfield Index Analysis
This has Liverpool written all over it. Every time a smart, technically strong ball playing defender enters the market, the Reds are in the mix. Lukeba looks like one of those signings supporters fall in love with immediately. Left sided, composed, rapid across the turf and already experienced at European level. If Konaté does go, replacing him with another French titan feels poetic.
Chelsea can throw money at the situation but they cannot offer what Liverpool can, a clear pathway into a side fighting for major honours. Slot would polish Lukeba into a monster. Imagine him beside Virgil van Dijk for a season of mentorship, before taking on the torch himself.
Liverpool should not hesitate. €60m for a defender who could anchor the back line for a decade is smart business. Forget dithering, make the call to Leipzig and get it done before someone else does. Anfield is ready for another French wall.
