Man Utd now interested in signing Bundesliga star | OneFootball

Manchester United have been monitoring RB Leipzig centre-back Castello Lukeba for weeks, according to French outlet Foot Mercato.

The Red Devils are likely to invest in a marquee central defender this summer with the possibility of Raphael Varane leaving on a free transfer.

The Frenchman has had another injury-plagued season with the club and he could move on with the hierarchy yet to extend his contract beyond June.

United are reportedly keeping tabs on Lukeba, but they are not alone with Chelsea also monitoring the former Lyon man.

The 21-year-old has made good progress since his move to the Bundesliga last summer. He has a release clause worth €70 million active from June 2025.

United is unlikely to make huge outlay on Lukeba

The Red Devils are currently on course to miss out on Champions League qualification but they still need points in the Premier League to book a Europa League spot.

They could also qualify for the competition by winning the FA Cup final against Manchester City.

Despite this, the club is unlikely to spend €70m or more on Lukeba. The onus could be on spending cautiously this summer.

Lukeba has impressed with his strong distribution, duel-winning ability and knack for making clearances, but the Frenchman is not the best at winning tackles.

He could improve with age and experience, but United may want a more established and versatile player.

Lukeba has played as a left centre-back in his whole career to date and United may ideally want someone who can play in both central defensive positions.

Stats from Transfermarkt.com.