RB Leipzig defender Castello Lukeba emerges as Barcelona target

Castello Lukeba has identified Barcelona as one of his preferred destinations and regards a move to the Catalan club as one of his biggest ambitions for the next stage of his career, according to a report.

The 23-year-old France defender is preparing to leave RB Leipzig next summer, believing the time is right to join one of Europe’s leading clubs. He is also seeking an opportunity to establish himself with the France senior side.

Lukeba recently changed his representation, leaving BS Group International to join Excellence Sport Nation. The agency also represents Barcelona defender Jules Kounde.

The switch is understood to be aimed at helping accelerate Lukeba’s departure from the German club after a move failed to materialise during the previous summer transfer window.

According to Sky Germany, the release clause in Lukeba’s contract will fall from 80m euros to 65m euros in summer 2027, a reduction that could make a transfer easier to complete.

RB Leipzig are also expected to need more than 100m euros from player sales next summer. That requirement could become greater if the club fails to qualify for the Champions League, making Lukeba one of the leading candidates to leave.

Deco holds talks with Lukeba representative

Barcelona’s sporting director Deco has already been involved in discussions over a possible transfer. Catalan newspaper Sport reports that Lukeba’s new representative met Deco at the end of October to examine the possibility of bringing the defender to Barcelona.

The meeting also covered the financial details of a potential deal and the possible structures that could be used to complete it.

Lukeba is admired by Barcelona’s sporting department and manager Hansi Flick. His age, ability to operate as a left-sided defender and confidence in building play from the back are all seen as qualities that match the club’s defensive requirements.

Barcelona may also be able to draw on its strong relationship with RB Leipzig, established after the transfer of Dani Olmo. The German club could be willing to agree to more flexible payment terms, provided a financial agreement satisfactory to all parties can be reached.