Castello Lukeba set to leave RB Leipzig for reduced fee this summer

French-Angolan centre-back Castello Lukeba is set to leave RB Leipzig this summer, with the German side reportedly willing to accept a reduced fee for the 23-year-old defender.

The 2025/26 season appears likely to be Lukeba’s final campaign in Germany, as both the player and the club see a transfer as the best option ahead of the next window.

Journalist Philipp Hinze reports that RB Leipzig are prepared to consider offers below the player’s €80 million release clause, with bids in the region of €65–70 million expected to be entertained.

Lukeba, who began his professional career at Olympique Lyonnais, has attracted interest from several Premier League clubs.

Arsenal, Manchester United and Liverpool are all reportedly contenders for his signature, as the young defender expresses a preference to continue his career in England.

Under contract with Leipzig until June 2029, Lukeba has been a regular feature in the current campaign. He has made 25 appearances across all competitions, contributing one goal and one assist.

Transfermarkt currently values the centre-back at €45 million, while his annual salary at the German club is reported to be €3 million.

The potential move comes as Leipzig aim to balance sporting ambitions with financial pragmatism, allowing the club to reinvest in the squad while enabling Lukeba to pursue opportunities in one of Europe’s top leagues.

The defender’s versatility and physical presence at the heart of defence have made him a sought-after talent, and his transfer is expected to be one of the major stories of the summer window if negotiations proceed smoothly.