RB Leipzig have placed a €70 million valuation on defender Castello Lukeba as interest from Real Madrid continues to gain traction ahead of the summer transfer window.
The French international has been on Real Madrid’s radar for some time, but previous attempts to explore a deal were complicated by Leipzig’s earlier €90m asking price.
However, recent reports from transfer expert Florian Plattenberg suggest the Bundesliga side may now be prepared to sanction a sale for around €70m, despite the centre-back having an €80m release clause in his contract.
Such a figure would represent a significant investment, though it would not be entirely unfamiliar territory for Madrid.
The Spanish giants already spent €60m on Dean Huijsen last summer as part of their plans to refresh the defensive line.
Defensive reinforcements remain a topic of discussion at the Santiago Bernabeu, particularly with the injury records of David Alaba and Antonio Rudiger raising concerns about the long-term stability of the backline.
Their situations have increased the likelihood that Madrid will explore further options at centre-back in the upcoming transfer window.
Lukeba is not the only name under consideration. The club have also been linked with a move for Ibrahima Konate, who could become available as a free agent in the near future, while Nico Schlotterbeck of Borussia Dortmund has also emerged as a potential target.
Another possibility is a return for former academy defender Jacobo Ramon, with Madrid reportedly holding an €8m buy-back clause following his move to Como.
There is also uncertainty surrounding Madrid’s recruitment structure, with questions reportedly being raised about the future role of chief scout Juni Calafat.
Any internal changes could ultimately influence the priorities of the Spanish giants as they prepare for what could be a busy summer in the transfer market.
