Latest Liverpool transfer news and rumours as the ECHO analyses claims about RB Leipzig defender Castello Lukeba
Liverpool Target Castello Lukeba as Quansah Exit Sparks Defensive Hunt
Liverpool’s £35m sale of Jarell Quansah to Bayer Leverkusen is poised to trigger further activity in what has already been a frenetic summer at Anfield. With the Premier League champions continuing to reshape their squad under Arne Slot, the search is now on for a young centre-back to replace the 22-year-old.
According to reports from the Liverpool Echo, the Reds are specifically looking for a youthful defensive prospect to complement their established centre-back options. Virgil van Dijk and Ibrahima Konate remain first-choice under Slot, while Joe Gomez offers further depth — but the loss of Quansah leaves a significant gap in Liverpool’s long-term plans.
It hasn’t taken long for the first serious candidate to emerge.
Liverpool Eye RB Leipzig’s Castello Lukeba
French outlet Foot Mercato reports that Liverpool are actively tracking RB Leipzig star Castello Lukeba — a name already familiar to Anfield watchers. The 21-year-old was previously linked with the Reds before making his move to Germany from Lyon in 2023.
Since then, Lukeba has firmly established himself under Marco Rose, making 72 appearances across all competitions and helping Leipzig to a German Super Cup title. His mix of composure, athleticism, and ball-playing ability aligns well with Liverpool’s criteria for a modern defender.
The report claims Liverpool aren’t alone in their interest, with Bayern Munich and Tottenham Hotspur also circling the Frenchman. However, despite Lukeba’s €90m (£77.9m) release clause, there’s talk of a so-called “gentleman’s agreement” that could see him depart for a reduced fee this summer.
Leipzig Dig In: ‘Not for Sale’ Stance Emerges
However, hopes of a deal may be premature. BILD in Germany offers a contrasting view, stating that RB Leipzig have no intention of selling Lukeba — regardless of outside interest.
Despite the club missing out on European football for 2025/26 and exploring player sales to balance their books, Lukeba is not part of the outgoing group. Leipzig are instead reportedly open to offloading Benjamin Sesko, Lois Openda, and Xavi Simons to generate funds.
Internally, both Lukeba and Leipzig believe that continuing their relationship is the best path for the Frenchman’s development. Given the hefty release clause and the club’s firm stance, any pursuit by Liverpool or other suitors could be a non-starter — unless the situation shifts dramatically.
What Next for Liverpool?
The Reds are casting a wide net as they look to bolster their defensive ranks following Quansah’s exit. Castello Lukeba fits the ideal profile, but Leipzig’s resistance could force Liverpool to explore alternative options in the coming weeks.
With Marc Guehi already deep in talks to join from Crystal Palace and Lukeba potentially off-limits, Richard Hughes and Arne Slot may be preparing for a two-pronged recruitment push — one experienced option in Guehi and another developmental talent to grow into the role Quansah was once tipped to inherit.
One thing is certain: Liverpool’s summer spending isn’t over yet.