Liverpool and Real Madrid eye Lukeba as Leipzig set reduced fee

Liverpool and Real Madrid have been given a significant boost in their pursuit of RB Leipzig defender Castello Lukeba, with the Bundesliga club reportedly willing to sell for a fee below his release clause. According to Sky Sports Germany reporter Philipp Hinze, Leipzig are prepared to consider offers in the region of €65m to €70m (£56.7m to £61m) this summer, a notable drop from his €80m (£69.8m) exit clause.

Both player and club are said to feel their time together could be coming to an end, with Lukeba seeking a new challenge. The 23-year-old French centre-back has attracted attention after a strong season in Germany, positioning him as a potential defensive target for the two European giants.

For Liverpool, the interest aligns with their anticipated search for at least one new central defender this summer, a need that could be influenced by the future of Ibrahima Konate. Real Madrid's pursuit is reportedly linked to potential departures of veteran defenders David Alaba and Antonio Rudiger, which would create a vacancy in their squad.

While highly rated for his technical ability, one noted concern regarding Lukeba's potential adaptation, particularly to the Premier League, is his aerial prowess. Statistical analysis places him in a low percentile for aerial duels won this season, a factor Liverpool would likely weigh in any decision to formalise their interest.

In a separate development, Real Madrid are also monitoring Liverpool forward Hugo Ekitike, according to sources speaking to TEAMtalk. The 23-year-old French international, a £79m signing last summer, has scored 17 goals in 42 appearances in his debut Liverpool campaign. Real's renowned recruitment team, led by chief scout Juni Calafat, is said to view Ekitike as one of the most promising young forwards in world football, though any move is considered part of their long-term planning.

Meanwhile, former Liverpool managing director Christian Purslow has suggested Mohamed Salah's anticipated move to the Saudi Pro League this summer may be more complicated than previously thought. Citing the player's age, contract situation, and geopolitical factors in the region, Purslow indicated on The Football Boardroom Podcast that a transfer to Saudi Arabia is not a foregone conclusion.