Arsenal have initiated discussions over a potential summer move for RB Leipzig centre-back Castello Lukeba, according to French outlet L’Equipe.
Gunners Target £52m Leipzig Centre-Back Castello Lukeba
The Gunners are already well-stocked at the back after signing Cristhian Mosquera and Piero Hincapie last summer.
The club have also reportedly decided to trigger the £45 million option to buy Hincapie following his loan spell from Bayer Leverkusen.
Despite that defensive depth, Arsenal continue to monitor central defenders, and they have now set their sights on the Leipzig star.
Lukeba has his sights set on a move to the Premier League or La Liga at the end of the campaign.
L’Equipe reports that Arsenal have “begun discussions” regarding a deal, though these talks remain on an internal level for now.
The North London club have not yet opened negotiations with Leipzig or the player’s representatives.
However, the Bundesliga side have made their stance clear. They want a package between £52 million and £60 million to sanction his sale this summer.
On paper, a move for Lukeba seems unlikely. Arsenal currently boast one of the strongest defensive units in Europe. William Saliba and Gabriel Magalhaes form a formidable partnership at the heart of the backline.
Behind them, the Gunners have impressive depth. Hincapie has featured regularly at left-back this year but offers quality in the centre. Mosquera has adapted brilliantly since his £13 million arrival from Valencia, providing solid cover.
Manager Mikel Arteta can also call upon Jurrien Timber and Riccardo Calafiori in central defence when needed. With six reliable options already in the squad, signing another centre-back appears unnecessary.
The Frenchman has impressed since joining Leipzig from Lyon. He completes 90 percent of his passes in the Bundesliga and wins 68 percent of his ground duels. He also averages five recoveries and five clearances per game.
Lukeba possesses the attributes to succeed in English football. However, a move to the Emirates may only materialise if Arsenal surprisingly decide against signing Hincapie permanently, or if Gabriel departs.
Neither scenario seems likely at this stage. The speculation may simply be agent-driven to attract interest from other Premier League clubs.
