Real Madrid head scout identifies Bundesliga star as favorite option to reinforce defence: Reports
Real Madrid chief scout Juni Calafat has identified Castello Lukeba as the ideal candidate to bolster Los Blancos' backline, according to journalist Rodra. The LaLiga giants are in the market for a new defender as they look to address an injury crisis at the back.
Los Blancos are without David Alaba and Eder Militao, both of whom are out with ACL injuries. The Brazilian defender ruptured his ACL last month and isn't expected to play again this season.
Alaba, meanwhile, is yet to return to action following a similar injury picked up in December 2023. However, Carlo Ancelotti recently suggested that the Austrian defender is back to full fitness and should return to the pitch in January.
Nevertheless, Real Madrid remain eager to address the position in 2025 and have identified Lukeba as an option. The 22-year-old centre-back is a long-term target for Los Blancos and Calafat has now given his green light for the move.
Lukeba has been a rock at the back for RB Leipzig this season, registering 15 appearances across competitions, 13 of which have been starts. The player reportedly has a €90m release clause in his contract, which could pose a problem in any deal.
The Frenchman is under contract with the Bundesliga club until 2029. RB Leipzig, as such, may only consider his exit if one of his suitors activates his release clause. Real Madrid haven't been shy of breaking the bank for the right players, so a move cannot be ruled out.
When are Real Madrid back in action?
Real Madrid return to action in LaLiga on January 3, 2025, when they travel to the Mestalla to face Valencia. Carlo Ancelotti's team are second in the league table after 18 games, a point behind leaders Atletico Madrid.
Los Blancos have struggled for consistency this season, despite securing the services of long-term target Kylian Mbappe over the summer. The French superstar joined the LaLiga giants as a free agent following the expiration of his contract with Paris Saint-Germain (PSG).
However, Mbappe has endured a slow start to life at the Santiago Bernabeu. Nevertheless, Real Madrid have shown signs of revival of late and remain firmly in the title race.
Los Blancos haven't been in their element in Europe and are 20th in the Champions League table. The LaLiga champions have won three games and lost three in the tournament this season, scoring 12 goals and letting in 11.
