FC Barcelona joined by Arsenal, Chelsea and Manchester United in Castello Lukeba chase

Castello Lukeba has attracted interest from FC Barcelona, Arsenal, Chelsea and Manchester United, with RB Leipzig’s 23-year-old central defender emerging as a target for several of Europe’s leading clubs.

According to Fussball-news, FC Barcelona are currently the most interested side. Manager Hansi Flick is looking for a left-footed centre-back who can help build play under pressure, and Lukeba fits that profile through his pace, distribution and ability to resist pressing.

The French defender has not been the subject of an official bid, but contact has reportedly been made through intermediaries. Lukeba is understood to be open to a move to FC Barcelona, where he would be attracted by the club’s sporting project and the possibility of working under Flick.

RB Leipzig, however, remain in a strong negotiating position.

Leipzig hold the advantage

Lukeba’s contract with the German club runs until June 2029. A previous release clause, estimated at between 80m and 90m euros, has expired, leaving RB Leipzig to determine his current value.

The club are understood to place that valuation between 60m and 65m euros, including bonuses. That figure is above his estimated market value of 50m euros on Transfermarkt.

A departure during the winter transfer window is not considered a priority for RB Leipzig, who want to maintain stability in defence. However, an attractive financial offer could alter the situation, particularly during next summer’s transfer window.

Lukeba, who is of Angolan descent, earns an annual salary of 3,000,000 euros, equivalent to 1,950,000,000 FCFA, in Germany.

With FC Barcelona and three English clubs monitoring his situation, the defender could attract significant attention in the next transfer windows. Arsenal, Chelsea and Manchester United are all reported to be keeping track of his availability, although FC Barcelona currently appear to have made the strongest early impression.

RB Leipzig are due to face Eintracht Frankfurt in their next match, the fifth round of the German championship.