Liverpool could be handed a timely defensive opportunity this summer, with RB Leipzig defender Castello Lukeba reportedly open to leaving amid uncertainty surrounding Ibrahima Konaté’s future.
Liverpool are continuing to shape their defensive plans ahead of the summer window, and the situation surrounding Ibrahima Konaté remains a key factor in their thinking.
Although the Reds have already secured the signing of Jérémy Jacquet ahead of the off-season, further reinforcements may still be required if Konaté’s contract talks fail to reach a positive conclusion.
With negotiations ongoing and time ticking down on the Frenchman’s current deal, attention is increasingly turning toward possible alternatives.
Lukeba open to next step as price becomes clearer
One player firmly on Liverpool’s radar is Castello Lukeba, who has been repeatedly linked with a move to Anfield over the past 18 months.
According to German journalist Florian Plettenberg, Lukeba is prepared to take the next step in his career this summer, with several top clubs monitoring his situation at RB Leipzig.
?? Castello #Lukeba is open to taking the next step in the summer.
Several top clubs are closely monitoring the 23 y/o left-footed centre-back from RB Leipzig. His release clause is €80m, though Leipzig could be willing to sell for around €70m. Contract valid until 2029.… pic.twitter.com/6IHmHgiTWa
— Florian Plettenberg (@Plettigoal) March 11, 2026
The 23-year-old centre-back has a reported release clause of €80 million (£69m), but Leipzig are said to be open to negotiating a slightly lower fee, potentially in the region of €70 million (£60m).
Plettenberg also noted that Max Eberl remains an admirer of Lukeba and has tracked him for Bayern Munich, although a move to Bavaria is currently considered unlikely due to squad and financial considerations.
That situation could leave the door open for Liverpool if they ultimately decide to strengthen at centre-back.
Konaté talks ongoing as Liverpool weigh their options
While speculation grows around Lukeba, Liverpool remain locked in discussions with Konaté over a possible contract extension. David Ornstein has suggested there is still optimism that an agreement could be reached between the club and the player.
“I think there’s constructive conversation around that one,” he said.
“I do think there’s a will on both sides, player and club, to try and find an agreement. It’s not there yet, but the conversations, from what we hear, are continuing and are pretty cordial.”
Reports indicate that conversations remain constructive, with both sides showing willingness to find common ground, even though a final deal has yet to be completed.
A resolution is expected to arrive in the coming weeks, and that outcome could heavily influence Liverpool’s defensive transfer plans. If Konaté signs a new contract, Liverpool may feel no immediate need to pursue another starting centre-back.
However, should negotiations stall or a departure become likely, Lukeba’s availability at a reduced fee could quickly move him to the front of the club’s shortlist.
