Arsenal have begun talks to sign RB Leipzig centre-back Castello Lukeba, according to reports in France.
The 23-year-old is currently in his third season with RB Leipzig after joining in a €34 million deal from Lyon in 2023. Arsenal have identified the French defender as a key target to strengthen their defensive options ahead of next season.
According to L’Equipe, Lukeba is set to leave the Bundesliga club this season and the defender favours either a move to the Premier League or La Liga. The report claims that Arsenal have begun discussions over a possible deal for Lukeba but no offer has been made.
An Arsenal scout also watched Lukeba in action for RB Leipzig in their 2-2 draw with Borussia Dortmund last month.
Lukeba has a €80 million release clause in his deal with Leipzig but the German club are understood to be open to a deal worth €60 million, approximately £51.7 million. That reduced asking price could make him an attractive proposition for Arsenal as they look to strengthen their squad during the summer transfer window.
Arsenal hold discussions over Castello Lukeba transfer
The French defender has impressed during his time in the Bundesliga. His performances have caught the attention of several top European clubs, with Arsenal moving quickly to establish contact over a potential summer move.
Leipzig’s willingness to accept a fee below his release clause suggests they recognize the inevitability of his departure.
Arsenal’s early engagement in discussions positions them well in the race for his signature, though competition from La Liga clubs could complicate negotiations.
Lukeba favours Premier League or La Liga move
Speaking about his future earlier this season, Lukeba told Bild: “My goal is to get back into Europe with Leipzig, because only watching the Champions League on TV is extremely painful. I’m not thinking any further ahead than that. We have to stay focused. The season is long. Last year we also started well and then had big problems.”
“My dream is to become world champion, or to win the Champions League someday. I don’t dream of playing for a specific club. Rather, I dream of winning titles because that’s what you remember most at the end of your career.”
Arsenal scout watches Lukeba in Dortmund draw
His comments about prioritizing titles over specific clubs work in Arsenal’s favor. The Gunners currently compete for major honors across multiple competitions and can offer Champions League football. That platform for success aligns with Lukeba’s stated ambitions.
Arsenal’s recruitment team clearly rate Lukeba highly given their decision to send scouts and initiate discussions.
The 23-year-old represents the profile Arsenal typically target: young, talented, and with room to develop further under Mikel Arteta’s guidance.
Whether they can agree terms with both Leipzig and the player remains to be seen, but Arsenal have made their interest clear by opening talks during the early stages of the transfer window.
