Real Madrid, currently second in La Liga, face a long-term problem in defence as experienced centre-back duo David Alaba and Antonio Rüdiger are entering the twilight of their careers. Alaba, in particular, has recently suffered an anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injury and is struggling to maintain his fitness, prompting Los Blancos’ board to look for a long-term replacement. Among the potential names, RB Leipzig’s Castello Lukeba has emerged as a leading candidate.
The 22-year-old French centre-back possesses a comprehensive skill set with good tackling ability, impressive speed and especially a modern footballing mindset. This makes him an ideal choice to inherit Alaba’s position at the Santiago Bernabéu. Real Madrid have been monitoring Lukeba for a long time and believe he could be an important piece for the future, especially after they lost Leny Yoro to Manchester United last summer.
However, the deal will not be easy as Manchester United are also in talks with RB Leipzig to sign Lukeba as a replacement for Lisandro Martínez, who has also suffered a serious ACL injury. The Red Devils have contacted Lukeba’s representatives to discuss a potential deal, but his £75m (€90m) release clause is complicating the deal.
In addition to Man Utd, Liverpool and Chelsea are also interested in Lukeba, but Real Madrid have a big advantage as they often convince players to choose fame and success in the Champions League over high wages in the Premier League. However, the rise of young talent Raúl Asencio could make the “White Vultures” reconsider their plans to recruit a new centre-back. If Asencio continues to show impressive form between now and the end of the season, Real could postpone their plans to sign Lukeba and focus on other positions.
However, in the big picture, Real Madrid needing a young, promising centre-back like Lukeba is essential. With Alaba and Rüdiger both in their 30s, Los Blancos need someone who can carry the defence into the future. But with Man Utd involved and the English club’s financial difficulties, there are still many variables to this deal and it could be one of the most notable blockbusters of the summer.