United’s pursuit of €90m defensive powerhouse receives lightning bolt after he demands transfer – report

Long-term Manchester United target Castello Lukeba has put potential suitors on red-alert after it was revealed the RB Leipzig defender is “planning a transfer” this summer.

German outlet Sport Bild (as relayed by GGFN) reveals Lukeba is in line to be the “next big sale” at the Red Bull Arena with the 22-year-old Frenchman to keen to join one of the European elite.

The centre-back has a €90 million release clause in his contract which comes into action this summer. And it’s stated Lukeba “wants to make use” of this clause to help push through a transfer.

The report reveals “Real Madrid, Liverpool, Chelsea and Manchester United are the clubs that have been linked to Lukeba in recent months,” with the Red Devils having first registered an interest in the French international when he was still at Lyon in Ligue 1 in 2023.

However, Castello sealed a €30 million move to Leipzig that summer where he has impressed for the German side at the heart of their defence with his imposing physique and ball-progression skills.

United continued to “closely follow” the 22-year-old’s progress in the Bundesliga with a recent report relayed by The Peoples Person revealing the club were “interested” in formalising this interest with an approach to Leipzig.

The fact that Lukeba has now signalled his intention to leave the German club is likely to strengthen Old Trafford officials’ hand in potential negotiations with their Red Bull counterparts.

If the French defender was to be sold for his release clause, it would match the “most expensive transfer in Leipzig’s history” after Josko Gvardiol moved to Manchester City in 2023 for the same price.

However, the furore around Gvardiol was considerably higher than Lukeba with the Croatian’s imperious form at the 2022 World Cup demonstrating his qualites on football’s biggest stage.

Furthermore, Lukeba has also struggled with a hamstring injury this season, played only 11 times. The Frenchman’s stock is at a much lower ebb than his former teammate as a result.

It’s extremely unlikel therefore Leipzig would be able to demand the 22-year-old’s full release clause. And the fact the player is pushing for a move himself will further weaken his employer’s resolve in negotiations over an exit.

United may be able to strike to land a long-term target at a price considerably lower than first expected.

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