Barcelona add Bundesliga star to list of centre-back targets | OneFootball

Barcelona have stepped up plans to sign a new central defender this summer, following Ronald Araujo’s move to Liverpool. They now have the space to bring in someone more suited to Hansi Flick’s style of play, which will be needed if they are to finally end their 11-year wait for a Champions League title.

If a new centre-back is to arrive, Flick would prefer a left-sided option to be brought in, given that his side felt Inigo Martinez’s absence last season. This has led to Real Betis’ Natan being identified as a target, although he’s not the only one being considered by sporting director Deco.

As per Sport, Barcelona are also showing interest in Castello Lukeba, and contact has been made with RB Leipzig to understand the numbers behind a possible deal for the defender. The 23-year-old, who has already been capped by France, is considered to be one of the leading centre-backs in the Bundesliga, and his performances over the last 2-3 years have alerted him to those at Can Barca.

Lukeba option will gain traction in event of further departure

For now, Barcelona have been focusing on more affordable targets, which makes sense given their plans to spend almost €200m on Rodri and a new striker. Lukeba would be out of their price range at this stage, but in the event of another exit, there would be increased of a deal being possible.

Presently, the most likely candidate to move on would be Jules Kounde. Barcelona have concerns about the France international after a disappointing 2025-26 campaign on an individual level, which is why offers could be considered if they were to arrive. If he does end up leaving, the club would prefer to put the money towards a quality central defender, and Lukeba is seen as one of the best options available.