Manchester United have expressed an interest in signing one of RB Leipzig’s best defenders this summer, according to SportBild (page 33).
The Red Devils suffered a huge setback against Crystal Palace in the Premier League earlier this month.
Lisandro Martinez was stretchered off with a knee ligament injury, and he could be on the sidelines for the remainder of the calendar year.
United may invest in a left-footed centre-back to fill the void, and they have reportedly made contact regarding Castello Lukeba.
Real Madrid were interested in the Frenchman last summer, but he decided to stay at Leipzig as the step came ‘too early’ in his career.
However, he is expecting a ‘mega move’ at the end of the campaign, and United are one of the main contenders to sign him.
Leipzig purchased Lukeba for £25 million from Lyon, but he has a release clause worth £75m in his contract signed in October last year.
United could swoop for Lukeba for a fair price
The Red Devils will likely be without Martinez at the start of next season. Victor Lindelof and Jonny Evans could also leave when their contracts expire on June 30.
Lukeba would be a fine acquisition to play on the left side of the back three. Manager Ruben Amorim prefers a left-footed centre-back in the role, and the 22-year-old would be a perfect fit.
He already has experience playing in a 3-4-3 formation at Leipzig and could seamlessly fit into Amorim’s plans. The big question is whether they can sign him for a fair price.
United could be willing to purchase him for around £50m, but there will be plenty of high-profile competition, with Madrid, Liverpool and Chelsea interested.
The Red Devils beat Madrid to recruit Leny Yoro from Lille last summer. They will aim to replicate this by bringing Lukeba to Old Trafford later this year.
Stats from Transfermarkt.com.
