For a few weeks now, Manchester United has reportedly been keeping an eye on RB Leipzig centre defender Castello Lukeba, according to the French publication Foot Mercato.

After joining Leipzig from Lyon in the summer of last year, the 21-year-old has grown into a capable centre defender. Man United has kept tabs on his performances, but Leipzig is hesitant to let him go this summer.

Although Lukeba’s contract now includes a £60 million release clause, the option won’t be activated until the conclusion of the next season. Therefore, in order to convince them to sign a summer contract, United could have to pay a big transfer price.

big talent
Ever since moving to the Bundesliga this season, the Frenchman has been nothing short of extraordinary. In the German top division, the left-footed centre defender has a 92% pass completion percentage. His ability to recover and clean his lines has also been excellent.

Given the intense scouting in recent weeks, United may be considering a move for him, but dealing with Leipzig won’t be simple. Josko Gvardiol was previously sold to Manchester City by the German team after they hung onto him for an additional season.

They might take a comparable action in Lukeba’s situation. The young player has excelled in his first season, and Leipzig is committed to keeping him around for another year barring a major transfer offer this summer.

Although United has demonstrated its ability to spend in the transfer market in the past, given the absence of Champions League money and worries over Financial Fair Play, they may take a more cautious approach this time.

Therefore, it doesn’t appear probable that Lukeba will be moved. Since Raphael Varane’s contract is set to expire at the end of June, United is still anticipated to acquire a new centre defender.

The team has no intention of starting negotiations for a new contract with lower compensation conditions, nor have they activated any extension provision in his current contract. They seem ready to let him go this summer on a free transfer.