Barcelona manager Hansi Flick has identified Castello Lukeba as his preferred option to strengthen the centre of his defence if the club decide to sign a new central defender.
According to Gerard Romero, speaking during a live broadcast on Spanish outlet Jijantes, Flick is a strong admirer of the RB Leipzig defender and believes the France international could add greater pace and physical strength to Barcelona’s back line. Lukeba’s ability to help build attacks from deep is also viewed as a significant asset.
The 23-year-old joined RB Leipzig from Lyon in 2023 and quickly established himself as an important member of the German side’s team. He has now made more than 100 official appearances for the club.
Lukeba is a left-footed centre-back, a profile that could make him a natural replacement for Inigo Martinez within Barcelona’s project. His age and continued development in the Bundesliga could also make him a long-term investment for the Catalan club.
However, a deal would be difficult to negotiate. RB Leipzig have already lost several prominent players during the current transfer window, including Yan Diomande and Lois Openda, and are unlikely to want to part with another key member of their squad.
The German club have signed Maxime Esteve to strengthen their defence, but that is not expected to make them willing to release Lukeba easily. The defender’s contract runs until 2029, giving RB Leipzig considerable leverage in any talks with Barcelona.
That contractual position, combined with Lukeba’s importance to the team, could force Barcelona to spend more than €50m if they decide to pursue the move.
Barcelona’s main priority in the transfer market remains the signing of a new striker. Julian Alvarez continues to be listed among the club’s leading targets, meaning any decision over Lukeba is likely to depend on whether the club can complete its attacking business first.
The Spanish club’s financial position will also be a key factor. Barcelona must assess how much room is available after a potential striker deal and whether strengthening at centre-back is an immediate necessity.
As a result, Flick’s preference for Lukeba does not guarantee that Barcelona will make a formal approach. The club’s plans will ultimately depend on the outcome of its pursuit of a forward, its finances and the perceived need to reinforce the heart of the defence.
