Chelsea Lead Race for Castello Lukeba as Big Clubs Prepare Bids. Top clubs across Europe are getting ready for a major transfer battle, and Castello Lukeba is at the centre of it. This article is Written being inspired by Caughtoffside
Chelsea Make Early Push for Castello Lukeba in January
Chelsea are leading the Premier League chase for Castello Lukeba. The 22-year-old defender has been one of the best young talents in the Bundesliga. Chelsea want new defenders, and they have already spoken to his camp. This shows they are serious about signing him.
Lukeba started his senior career at Lyon and moved to RB Leipzig in 2023. He has grown fast and now feels like a proven starter. He has already played 12 times this season and has shown calmness, strength and control. Chelsea’s plan is to build with young players, so Lukeba fits the project perfectly.
But Chelsea are not alone. Liverpool, Manchester United and Newcastle United are also watching him. They see Lukeba as a top defender who may be available for much less than expected. This means Chelsea must act fast before a full bidding war begins.
🆕 Liverpool are among several clubs showing an interest in RB Leizpig centre-back Castello Lukeba, who has a release clause worth €90m (£78.3m) but has a 'real asking price' closer to €60m (£52.2m)
(@MarkBrusCOS) pic.twitter.com/XJJOi0dyyH
— Anything Liverpool (@AnythingLFC_) October 11, 2025
Why Castello Lukeba Fits the Modern Premier League Defender Profile
There is a lot of excitement around Castello Lukeba because he has the skills modern teams want. At 22, he is strong, fast and comfortable with the ball. He can play out from the back, step into midfield and defend big spaces. This is important for Premier League teams that play with a high line.
Lukeba reads the game well and stays calm when under pressure. Leipzig value him a lot, but the situation has changed. His original release clause was €90 million, which scared many clubs. But now Leipzig may accept around €60 million in January. This lower price has brought more interest.
If a transfer does not happen in January, his clause will drop to around €80 million next summer. The price is still high, but clubs may feel it is fair for a defender with huge potential and a contract until 2029. Waiting gives clubs time, but it also gives rivals a chance to move ahead.
Lukeba is young, smart and reliable. He fits teams like Chelsea and Liverpool, who are rebuilding their squads. Manchester United are watching too, as they plan for the future of their defence.
🚨🆕 Castello #Lukeba is one to watch for the summer transfer window. He will have an €80 million release clause at that point.
Financially powerful clubs have him on their lists. The clause drops to €65 million in summer 2027. His contract runs until 2029.
Max Eberl is a big… pic.twitter.com/Ks6XfB6HtP
— Florian Plettenberg (@Plettigoal) November 28, 2025
Premier League Rivals Ready to Challenge Chelsea’s Lead
Chelsea may be in front, but Liverpool are still a major threat. Their defence has not been strong this season, so Lukeba would help them right away and also be a long-term solution. His speed and timing fit Liverpool’s style, especially as they adjust to new tactics.
Manchester United are looking at midfield first, but if things change in January, they could move for Lukeba too. Newcastle also remain interested as they deal with injuries and look to add more depth.
Clubs must decide whether to push for a deal now or wait until summer. Each option has risks. But one thing is clear: interest in Lukeba is growing fast, and the club that moves early will have the best chance to sign him.
Author’s Opinion
Castello Lukeba is the type of defender top Premier League clubs should target young, calm, and already tested at a high level. Chelsea’s early move makes sense, but Liverpool look like the team that may need him the most. Their defence needs stability, and Lukeba can give them that.
His price is lower than before, so waiting only creates danger. The smartest club will act now and secure a defender who could lead their back line for many years.
As featured on Chelseanews.com