Barcelona monitoring French-Angolan defender Castello Lukeba at RB Leipzig

Barcelona are reportedly monitoring RB Leipzig defender Castello Lukeba as the Catalan club continue to assess possible reinforcements ahead of the transfer deadline.

According to The Athletic, the 23-year-old French international has attracted the attention of Barcelona manager Hansi Flick, who is said to admire his versatility and ability to operate both at centre-back and left-back.

Barcelona’s main priority remains signing a new centre-forward, but the club could also strengthen their defence before the transfer window closes.

Lukeba established himself in Germany

Lukeba came through the Olympique Lyonnais academy before making his professional debut and quickly establishing himself as one of France’s promising young defenders.

He moved from Lyon to RB Leipzig in the summer of 2023 in a deal worth €30m and has since become an important member of the German club’s squad.

The France international, who has one senior cap, started 27 of his 29 appearances in all competitions last season.

His performances helped Leipzig finish third in the 2025-26 Bundesliga season and secure qualification for the Champions League.

Leipzig hold strong position over defender

Lukeba remains under contract with Leipzig until 2029, putting the German club in a strong negotiating position should Barcelona make a formal approach.

Transfermarkt currently values the defender at around €50m.

Barcelona’s interest could therefore depend on whether they are prepared to meet Leipzig’s valuation, particularly with the Catalan club also looking to strengthen their attack.

For Lukeba, a move to Barcelona would represent another major step in his development and could give the France international an opportunity to compete regularly at the highest level of European club football.