Despite having brought in seven new players to reinforce all the areas of their team during the last summer transfer window, FC Barcelona still have one area left somewhat weak, and which they are already working to strengthen in the upcoming winter transfer window, i.e., the center of the defense.
The need for reinforcements in this area was highlighted during the last few days as Hansi Flick was left without any natural first team defenders due to injuries, and had to rely on two midfielders, Frenkie de Jong and Brian Farinas, to make up the center-back pairing during the game against Alaves.
The Blaugranes were also reportedly looking for a center-back during the last summer transfer window, but ultimately decided not to sign one and to rely on Gerard Martin and Andreas Christensen. During that time, one of the players they were linked with for this position was the French defender Castello Lukeba, but the Catalans did not end up making any offer for him.
However, [Mundo Deportivo](https://www.mundodeportivo.com/futbol/fc-barcelona/20261107/1004248172/lukeba-suena-barca.html) cites Sky Sports to claim that the Frenchman still dreams of playing for Barcelona, and has changed his agency to Excellence Sport Nation to maximize his chances of achieving this dream. This is the same agency that represents Jules Kounde.
The defender has a contract with RB Leipzig till 2028, but his release clause is set to decrease from €80 million to €65 million. Although this price is still high, it is still somewhat reasonable for a left-footed center-back who is still only 23 years of age and has a lot of potential for further growth.
Furthermore, Leipzig might not resist his transfer too much, as they need to generate around €100 million by the next summer to balance their books.
For their part, Barcelona are also looking for a center-back, but with [several other candidates also in their sights](https://barcanewsnetwork.com/barcelona-identify-four-centre-back-targets-as-flick-seeks-january-reinforcements/), it remains to be seen whether Castello Lukeba will get to achieve his dream of playing for the Blaugrana club any time soon.