Liverpool are set to make a decisive move in the upcoming summer transfer window by targeting RB Leipzig’s highly-rated central defender Castello Lukeba, with reports indicating the Reds have been given the green light to pursue a deal following a significant drop in the player’s valuation.
The 23-year-old French international has enjoyed a strong season in the Bundesliga, establishing himself as one of the most promising young centre-backs in Europe. With Liverpool expected to strengthen their defensive options — particularly depending on the situation with soon-to-be free agent Ibrahima Konate — the club has turned its attention to value-for-money targets in the German top flight.
According to Sky Sports Germany reporter Philipp Hinze, RB Leipzig are now prepared to consider offers for Lukeba in the region of €65m-70m (£56.7m-£61m), a notable reduction from his €80m (£69.8m) release clause. Both the player and the club reportedly feel that the time is right for a new challenge, opening the door for serious suitors this summer.
Liverpool and Real Madrid currently lead the race for Lukeba’s signature. For the Reds, he represents a potential long-term successor or partner in central defence, while Real Madrid are eyeing reinforcements after planning to sanction the exits of veterans David Alaba and Antonio Rudiger, which could leave them short at the back.
The 6ft defender brings composure on the ball and strong technical qualities, making him an attractive prospect for Arne Slot’s side. However, analysts have highlighted a potential area for concern: Lukeba ranks in the 26th percentile for aerial duels won this season, suggesting he could face challenges adapting to the more physical and aerially demanding nature of the Premier League.
Despite this, his overall profile remains elite, and a move to Anfield would offer him the chance to compete at the highest level in England, where Liverpool still harbour ambitions for Champions League success.
Real Madrid plotting raid on Liverpool star Hugo Ekitike
In a separate development that could further complicate Liverpool’s summer plans, Real Madrid are closely monitoring the rapid rise of Reds forward Hugo Ekitike.
The 23-year-old France international has made a significant impression in his debut campaign at Anfield, netting an impressive 17 goals in 42 appearances across all competitions. His performances have stood out even in what has been a challenging season for Liverpool overall, with the club still in contention for Champions League glory.
Ekitike’s £79m arrival last summer flew somewhat under the radar amid big-money signings like Alexander Isak and Florian Wirtz, as well as full-backs Milos Kerkez and Emmanuel Frimpong. Yet it is the young striker who has arguably delivered the biggest impact, earning praise as one of the most promising young forwards in world football.
Sources indicate that Real Madrid’s renowned recruitment team, led by chief scout Juni Calafat, has seen Ekitike’s name climb sharply up their internal shortlist. He fits their long-term succession planning in attack, though he is not the only name on their radar — with Erling Haaland remaining a long-term target.
A move for Ekitike would represent a gut-wrenching blow for Liverpool supporters, especially given his seamless integration and goal-scoring contributions.
Salah tipped to avoid Saudi switch amid form and geopolitical concerns
Meanwhile, uncertainty continues to surround the future of Liverpool legend Mohamed Salah, who is expected to depart Anfield this summer following a high-profile fallout.
Former Liverpool managing director Christian Purslow has offered a frank assessment, suggesting that while a move to the Saudi Pro League was once advancing rapidly — with Al-Ittihad reportedly ready to offer a staggering €100m (£87m/$115m) per season for two years — several factors may now complicate or derail that path.
Purslow pointed to Salah’s dip in form this season, the aftermath of a significant “blow-up” with the manager, and the practical realities of the transfer market for a player in his mid-30s on high wages. He noted that there was limited interest from clubs willing to meet both the salary expectations and pay a substantial transfer fee.
Beyond footballing considerations, Purslow highlighted broader world events: “We are in the middle of a war and that could be a relevant factor… It looks a bit more of a dangerous place. Players think hugely about their families.”
He also observed that the era of Saudi clubs paying premium fees for players over 30 appears to be winding down. Alternatives for Salah could include MLS or even a return to a European club like his former side Roma, though a move elsewhere in Europe remains possible if the right opportunity arises.
As the summer transfer window approaches, Liverpool face a critical period: bolstering their defence with a potential bargain in Lukeba while bracing for interest in their standout performers like Ekitike — and navigating the exit of one of their all-time greats in Salah.
The Reds will need to move decisively to avoid being outmanoeuvred by European heavyweights like Real Madrid, who are never shy about raiding Premier League talent at the most inconvenient moment.