Barcelona consider Castello Lukeba move as Alejandro Balde and Jules Kounde futures shape defensive plans

Barcelona are waiting to resolve the futures of Alejandro Balde and Jules Kounde before deciding whether to make a serious move for RB Leipzig defender Castello Lukeba, with manager Hansi Flick keen to strengthen the left side of his defence.

The Catalan club continue to view Julian Alvarez as their top priority for the striker position, but they are also exploring the possibility of signing a new centre-back during the summer transfer window.

Any defensive addition will depend largely on Barcelona raising funds through the sale of one of their current players. Flick has opened the door to the departure of either Balde or Kounde, and the exit of one of them could give the club the financial room to pursue a new defender.

According to Mundo Deportivo, Barcelona would then consider strengthening both central defence and left-back, depending on how the squad develops in the final days of the transfer window.

Lukeba is understood to be Flick’s preferred option for the centre-back position. The 23-year-old France international is under contract with RB Leipzig until June 2029 and is regarded as a strong fit for the qualities the Barcelona manager is seeking.

The defender is left-footed and combines physical strength with pace. He is also considered capable of recovering from mistakes and moving behind the defensive line, attributes that have made him an attractive option for Flick.

However, a deal for Lukeba would be difficult to complete because of his high valuation. Barcelona would first need to generate income from the sale of one of their players before they could make the necessary financial commitment.

The club are also monitoring the left-back position. Jorge Salinas, the 19-year-old Racing player, is among the options attracting Barcelona’s interest and is estimated to be worth about 16m euros.

Barcelona’s final decision is therefore expected to come only after they settle the striker situation and clarify whether Balde or Kounde will leave. Until then, the club’s plans for the back line remain dependent on both sporting priorities and its financial position.

Barcelona face Elche on Sunday in the second round of La Liga. They will then play Athletic Club on Thursday in a rearranged fixture from the opening round.

The matches involving Real Madrid, Barcelona and Atletico de Madrid were postponed because their players had been involved in the World Cup. The postponements were also intended to ensure the players received a longer period of rest, in accordance with the regulations.