Pep Guardiola has set his sights on RB Leipzig’s defensive prodigy, Castello Lukeba, and has urged Manchester City to make a move for him. According to a report from Fichajes, the reigning Premier League champions are eyeing Lukeba as a potential reinforcement, believing the French youngster would be a perfect addition to their already formidable squad.
Impressed by Lukeba’s rapid rise, Guardiola has reportedly asked the club to pursue the defender in the summer of 2025. The 21-year-old, who developed at Olympique Lyon before joining Leipzig in 2023, has made a name for himself in Germany over the past 18 months, evolving into one of the most promising young defenders in Europe.
Lukeba’s performances have turned heads across the continent, prompting Leipzig to secure his future by extending his contract until the summer of 2029. Despite this long-term deal, City remains undeterred and could still attempt to lure him to the Etihad before the 2025/26 season begins.
Even with considerable depth in their defense, City is always looking to upgrade. They see Lukeba not just as a talent for the future but as someone who could make an immediate impact. His ability to play out from the back, combined with his aerial prowess, makes him an ideal fit for Guardiola’s system.
Guardiola is eager to bring Lukeba into the fold, viewing him as the perfect defender to complement his team’s tactical approach. While Leipzig may have tied Lukeba down with a new contract, a bid in the region of €60-70 million could be enough to tempt them into a sale next summer. Although a hefty price tag for such a young player, City’s financial power means they could make the deal happen without much trouble.
