In a recent report, Marca mentioned that Real Madrid have identified Red Bull Leipzig defender Castello Lukeba as a target. It has been stated that Los Blancos are eyeing a move to recruit the French centre-back next year.
Lukeba’s Impressive Form In German Football Last Season
Lukeba enjoyed a solid campaign at the German club recently as he was responsible for putting in a series of impressive displays for them on the defensive end of the field. The 21-year-old scored one goal in 41 matches for RB Leipzig last season across all competitions.
The French youngster was a decent contributor when defending inside his half based on his average of 0.6 tackles, 0.4 interceptions and 2.9 clearances per game in the Bundesliga. He was even been accurate when distributing possession from the back, as evidenced by his pass success rate of 91.7% in top-flight football (stats via whoscored).
His current contract at the German club will expire in the summer of 2028 which could make it tough for Los Blancos to sign him on a cut-price deal next year.
Should Real Madrid Boss Carlo Ancelotti Get Lukeba On Board?
Lukeba is a good tackler of the ball and can time his challenges well to earn the ball back for his side inside his half. He usually puts his foot through the ball when the opposition are on the offensive and can use his strong 1.84m frame to win a few aerial duels for his team.
The French prospect is also proficient at playing his way out from the back. However, he is still unproven at the highest level and would need time to adjust to life at Real Madrid if Carlo Ancelotti can devise a way to snap him up next year.
Lukeba would add more bite and steel to the Madrid club‘s defence. He is good enough to challenge for a regular first-team spot at the Santiago Bernabeu Stadium in the coming years. Therefore, it makes sense for Los Blancos to get Lukeba on board in the winter transfer period or at the end of this campaign. However, Ancelotti has to be patient with his progress before he can unlock the best out of the gifted youngster.
