Castello Lukeba’s RB Leipzig future in doubt as transfer interest grows

Castello Lukeba’s future at RB Leipzig has become increasingly uncertain, with the France international attracting interest ahead of next summer’s transfer window.

The 23-year-old central defender, who is of Angolan origin, has left BS Group International and joined Excellence Sport Nation, according to journalist Philipp Hinze. The new agency will represent Lukeba as he considers the next stage of his career.

Lukeba is understood to have ambitions of joining a leading European club, with a move to FC Barcelona reportedly among his major ambitions.

The former Olympique Lyonnais player was already considering leaving RB Leipzig last summer, but no transfer materialised. His release clause is currently set at 80 million euros, although that figure is due to fall to 65 million euros from the summer of 2027.

RB Leipzig are expected to generate more than 100 million euros in gross transfer revenue next summer. That requirement could increase if the German club fail to qualify for the Champions League, making the sale of a player such as Lukeba a potential solution.

Despite the uncertainty surrounding his future, Lukeba remains under contract with RB Leipzig until 30 June 2029. He is valued at 50 million euros by Transfermarkt.

Lukeba earns an annual salary of 3 000 000 euros (1 950 000 000 FCFA) in Germany.

RB Leipzig’s next fixture is against Augsburg in the ninth round of the German championship.