RB Leipzig defender Castello Lukeba is a potential transfer target for FC Barcelona and Manchester United in the summer 2026 window. This is reported by the outlet Khel Now this week, naming the 23-year-old Frenchman as a candidate to strengthen both clubs' defences.
The French international, born in Lyon in December 2002, is under contract with RB Leipzig until 2029. He moved from Olympique Lyonnais to Leipzig in 2023 for a reported fee of €34 million and has established himself as a left-footed centre-back. Standing at 1.84 meters tall, he possesses the physical attributes for the role.
Why is Castello Lukeba in demand?
Castello Lukeba has developed into a key defensive figure since his move to RB Leipzig. His performances last season, which saw Leipzig finish fourth in the Bundesliga, have apparently attracted attention from bigger clubs. Leipzig ended the 2025 season with 56 points from 29 games, recording 17 wins, five draws, and seven losses. The team showed strong recent form with a WWWLW run. The defence conceded 36 goals while the team scored 56 times.
His career path is impressive. Lukeba came through the youth academy at Olympique Lyonnais, joining in 2011, and made his senior debut in the 2021-22 season. He made 58 total appearances for Lyon before the switch to Germany. Internationally, he gained experience with various French youth teams and was part of the squad for the 2024 Paris Olympic Games. He has also earned his first senior cap for France.
What are FC Barcelona's plans?
According to the Khel Now report, FC Barcelona is actively seeking reinforcements in the current transfer window. Manager Hansi Flick is said to be a big admirer of Castello Lukeba's abilities. The club has already signed Rodri, Anthony Gordon, and Karim Adeyemi for the 2026-27 season but still has needs, particularly in attack, where a move for Atlético Madrid's Julián Álvarez is being considered.
In defence, a gap could open if Alejandro Balde leaves the club. This is where Castello Lukeba enters the picture. The report names him as a potential replacement for Balde. Lukeba's versatility, being able to play both centre-back and left-back, makes him an attractive option for Barcelona. Planning for the new campaign is in full swing.
What does this mean for RB Leipzig?
For RB Leipzig, losing Castello Lukeba would be a significant blow. The player is an important part of the backline and is on a long-term contract until 2029. A sale this summer, however, could free up substantial financial resources for the club's own reinforcements. Marco Rose's squad is currently preparing for the new season.
The next step for Leipzig is a home fixture against Borussia Mönchengladbach on August 29. Gladbach currently sits 14th in the table. You can find all upcoming fixtures on our fixtures page. The current league table and further stats are available on the standings overview. The sporting leadership will monitor the Lukeba situation closely as the team aims to close the 20-point gap to leaders Bayern München in the coming season.
Is there also interest from Manchester United?
Alongside Barcelona, Manchester United is also showing interest in Castello Lukeba, according to Khel Now. The English record champions have been looking for defensive reinforcements for some time. Interestingly, there are also rumours linking Manchester United with the very same Alejandro Balde for whom Lukeba is touted as a replacement at Barcelona. This highlights the competitive nature of the transfer market, where several top clubs are vying for similar player profiles.
The situation remains fluid. For RB Leipzig, defence is a key area, especially considering the 56 goals scored and 36 conceded last season. A move for Lukeba would necessitate a reshuffle. Information on the squad composition is available on our squad page. The coming weeks will reveal whether the speculation leads to a concrete offer or if Castello Lukeba will continue to wear the RB Leipzig shirt.
