Liverpool are reportedly ready to spend massive money to sign RB Leipzig star Castello Lukeba in order to replace Virgil van Dijk in case the Dutch defender leaves in the summer.
The Liverpool captain had a lot to do on Wednesday evening as he marshalled his players after full-time against Everton to ensure Curtis Jones was the only one sent off. The Merseyside derby descended into chaos after Ibrahima Konate was pushed and fouled for Everton’s equaliser which led to a brawl between the two teams.
Van Dijk was world-class throughout the game and it was one of those matches that shows what you’ll be missing when he leaves. The former Southampton star makes his job look so easy.
However, the Reds are looking at several centre-backs across Europe as they prepare for the worst. There is a chance that van Dijk doesn’t extend his Liverpool deal and if that comes to pass, FSG will need to sign a replacement.
According to German news outlet Sport Bild, Lukeba has extended his RB Leipzig contract which now includes a massive €90million (£75m) release clause although the report states: “The defender is not afraid that the sum could deter top clubs.”
That sentence is then followed by this claim: “Sport Bild knows that the Frenchman and his advisors are planning a mega transfer.”
Real Madrid reportedly tried to sign Lukeba last summer when he was worth only €50 million (£41m) but the player was not ready to leave yet although that is no longer the case as Lukeba as his team gets ready for a move away from Leipzig.
In the Premier League, Liverpool are not the only team with their sights on Lukeba. Arsenal and Manchester United have also expressed their interest in signing the 22-year-old to RB Leipzig.
Again, a lot will depend on whether Liverpool retain van Dijk’s services beyond this season but if not, Lukeba may well be a serious target for Arne Slot and his recruitment staff.
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