Barcelona have begun concrete moves to transfer French defender Castello Lukeba from Leipzig, with coach Hansi Flick considering the 23-year-old one of the main priorities for strengthening the defensive department.
According to reports, Catalan leaders have established contacts with the German club and the player’s representatives, and talks are taking place in a positive atmosphere.
Barcelona’s interest has significantly changed the situation in the competition, as Arsenal had also been closely monitoring the French defender for a long time.
Lukeba made 29 official appearances during the last season with Leipzig and remains tied to the club until 2029.
His market value is reported to be around 60 million euros, a figure that Barcelona should seriously consider if they want to finalize the deal.
The request for the Frenchman’s transfer comes directly from Hansi Flick, who is looking for a center-back capable of building the game from the back, with high technical qualities and a left foot.
The technical staff also appreciates Lukebas’ physical strength, speed and ability to cover spaces in a system based on high pressure.
At Camp Nou, they believe the French defender could become Pau Cubars’ ideal partner in the heart of defense for many years to come.
Scouting reports consider him a strategic investment for the future, while the leaders are willing to make great efforts to secure his signature.
Barcelona are also working on several other targets in the summer transfer window, with names such as Joao Cancelo, Bernardo Silva and Julian Alvarez continuing to be linked with the Catalan club.
However, strengthening the defense remains one of Flick’s top priorities, as he seeks to build a competitive squad to return to the top of European football.
The coming weeks are expected to be decisive for Lukebas’ future, as Barcelona aims to use its weight in the international market to close a transfer that is considered key to the club’s new sporting project.
