As reported by Sky Germany, Lyon centre-back Castello Lukeba is close to joining reigning DFB-Pokal winners RB Leipzig.
With the sale of Croatian defender Joško Gvardiol imminent, the Saxons look to have found their ideal replacement in 20-year-old Lukeba. There have been positive talks between both Leipzig and Lyon in the past few days and an agreement is looking ever closer.
Despite concerns from the Leipzig camp that the Frenchman would be too expensive, L’Equipe are reporting that €32m will get the deal over the line. After speaking to current Leipzig defender and fellow French under-21 international Mohamed Simakan, Lukeba has become impressed by the club and their ambitions.
Last season Lukeba featured 38 times for Lyon in all competitions scoring two goals and keeping six clean sheets. He would also be part of the France under-21 squad that made it to the quarter-finals of the European Championship before being eliminated by Ukraine.
While Leipzig may be closing in on an agreement with one French side, a deal to sign Loïs Openda from RC Lens is becoming less likely with the two sides struggling to meet on a valuation. With many key players departing Saxony this summer, the addition of Lukeba will ensure that the Leipzig defence does not feel the effects of the departing Gvardiol.
GGFN | Will Shopland
