Reports Place Chelsea in Front for RB Leipzig Defender Castello Lukeba

Unconfirmed reports place Chelsea at the front of a crowded market shaped by Lukeba’s release-clause timing.

Overview

CaughtOffside reports Chelsea are leading the pursuit and that RB Leipzig could consider a January sale at around €60 million.
The same report says Liverpool, Manchester United and Newcastle are tracking the 22-year-old centre-back.
Separate reporting has claimed a release clause would make Lukeba available for about €80 million in summer 2026, dropping to €65 million in 2027.
Bayern Munich are reported to view Lukeba as a possible successor to Dayot Upamecano, with their stance said to hinge on Upamecano leaving on a free when his contract expires.
Lukeba has not made a long-term commitment in public comments and no club has confirmed negotiations or an agreement.