Chelsea are plotting a move for RB Leipzig defender Castello Lukeba ahead of the January transfer window, according to reports.
The Blues have been alerted to the possibility that the Frenchman will be available next month, and TEAMTalk claim they are preparing an official bid.
Lukeba’s asking price is said to have dropped to around €60m (£52m) and that is a fee that Enzo Maresca’s side could be willing to pay.
An offer between €55m (£48m) and €60m (£52m) is reportedly expected from Chelsea as they look to steal a march on their rivals.
4 other clubs have targeted Lukeba
It is believed that Liverpool, Tottenham, Manchester United and Real Madrid have all shown varying levels of interest in the 22-year-old.
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However, none of them are likely to make their move for Lukeba in January, with the general expectation being that they will wait until the summer.
Bayern Munich are thought to be Chelsea’s biggest competitor. They are in danger of losing Dayot Upamecano on a free transfer at the end of the season, and they may return to his former club to secure his replacement. Whether they are willing to match Leipzig’s valuation, though, is a completely different matter. The Blues are, therefore, set to “lead the race” for his signature.
What should Chelsea fans expect from the centre-back?
Lukeba has been described as a “graceful” defender, and despite still only being 22 years of age, he does have a good deal of experience behind him already.
The France international played 68 times for his first club Lyon before joining Leipzig for €30m in the summer of 2023. Over the last two and a half seasons, he has racked up a further 86 appearances at club level, whilst also being capped 6 times by his country.
Read more about the Chelsea First Team Squad for 2025/26 here