Aston Villa are showing a strong interest in RB Leipzig centre-back Castello Lukeba ahead of the summer transfer window, according to Sports Boom.
The Villans have had an excellent season so far and currently sit third in the Premier League table, while they have also qualified for the knockout stages of the Europa League after a successful campaign in Europe under Unai Emery.
Their performances this season mean that the board are already planning for next season with the hope of achieving Champions League qualification, and that has seen them identify Lukeba as a potential top defensive target for the window.
Aston Villa Want Castello Lukeba
RB Leipzig's Castello Lukeba gesturing
Lukeba, who has been described as 'world-class', has emerged as one of the top young defenders in Europe due to his performances for the Bundesliga side, and that saw them reward him with a new long-term contract last season which included a release clause worth around €90m (£78m).
However, it's understood that Leipzig would be willing to entertain a sale this summer if they received an offer that guaranteed them at least £52m plus significant add-ons, in a similar sort of bracket that saw Josko Gvardiol leave for Manchester City.
That has seen a number of clubs sit up and pay attention to his situation, and Villa are one who are said to be 'lurking' for his signature as they look to strenghtne their squad for a potential Champions League campaign.
Leipzig are aware that they won't be able to hold on to the player if they don't secure Champions League football themselves, and Villa are keen to get ahead of the competition by being able to promise the player a key role in their ambitious project should he join.
There have been some talks between the player's camp and delegates from Premier League sides, although which clubs remains unclear.
Lukeba Would be Statement Signing for Aston Villa
Castello Lukeba RB Leipzig
A France international with Champions League experience, Lukeba is likely to be a major player in the transfer market this summer should he become available.
Some of the biggest clubs in Europe are said to be keeping a close eye on him, but if Villa are able to convince him that a move to the Midlands to work under Unai Emery is his best option, then it could be a statement signing and a shrewd bit of business.
Alongside Ezri Konsa, Villa would be creating a formidable defence, capable of competing at the highest level, and that could be appealing for a player like Lukeba.
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