RB Leipzig defender Castello Lukeba has emerged as a target for Tottenham
There is an urgent need to bring in defensive reinforcements in the summer if Tottenham Hotspur want to close the gap on their rivals next season.
During the winter transfer window, Spurs signed Kevin Danso on loan from RC Lens with an obligation to buy at the end of the season. On June 1, Danso’s loan got immediately turned into a permanent deal for €25 million. As per recent reports, the Lilywhites have finalised the transfer of Japanese defensive prospect Kota Takai from Kawasaki Frontale.
Last season saw Cristian Romero and Micky van de Ven spend lengthy spell on the sidelines due to injuries. Their absences proved way too costly as the North Londoners lacked any sort of leadership, control and stability at the back. Now, with Romero potentially heading for the exit doors amid Atletico Madrid interest and Van de Ven struggling to prove his fitness over two seasons at N17, Daniel Levy must look to sign a quality defender that could potentially replace either one of the them in the long run.
According to a report from French outlet Foot Mercato, Tottenham are eyeing a move for RB Leipzig defender Castello Lukeba. The Frenchman has a €90 million release clause in his contract, but there is an agreement between all parties that he will be allowed to leave this summer for less than that amount.
Despite RB Leipzig’s underwhelming 2024/25 campaign, Castello Lukeba was one of their standout names. An injury-hit campaign restricted him to only 23 Bundesliga appearances, and his impressive displays have caught the attention of Tottenham and several other clubs across Europe.
The aforementioned report adds Liverpool and Bayern Munich are also interested in the 22-year-old, who is under contract with Die Roten until 2029. After his commitments with France at the Under-21 European Championships, he is open to a new challenge.
Lukeba, referred to as ‘duel monster’, would be a sensational acquisition for Tottenham, adding more physicality and robustness to their backline that was extremely porous last season. The France Under-21 international is a strong ball-carrier and more than capable of pinging crosses left, right and centre with his sweet left foot. He can also operate as a left-back, meaning the ex-Lyon man could step in during Destiny Udogie’s absence when required.
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However, it is unlikely Spurs meet Lukeba’s €90 million release clause or spend anything close to that fee, unless one of Romero or Van de Ven departs. As Atletico Madrid’s interest in Romero is not secret anymore, chances of the Argentinean international leaving the club remain high than Van de Ven, who hasn’t been linked with an exit this summer.
And if that happens, Tottenham may then think of going all out for the signing of Leipzig’s defensive wall.