Report: Guardiola Eyes Key Defensive Addition from Bundesliga | OneFootball

Guardiola’s Summer Target: Castello Lukeba to Manchester City?

Pep Guardiola has set his sights on one of the most promising young defenders in world football. Castello Lukeba, a 21-year-old French centre-back currently playing for RB Leipzig, has emerged as a key target for Manchester City ahead of the 2025 summer transfer window. According to Fichajes, Guardiola is particularly keen on adding Lukeba to his defensive ranks, even as the player edges closer to signing a contract extension with Leipzig that could keep him at the club until 2029.

However, despite Leipzig’s desire to hold on to the young defender, interest from Premier League giants, including Manchester City, could change the trajectory of Lukeba’s career. The Frenchman has already established himself as a crucial part of Leipzig’s backline and is regarded as one of the brightest defensive prospects of his generation.

A Price Tag Worth Paying?

While RB Leipzig has been keen to secure Lukeba’s future, reports suggest that Manchester City is undeterred by the potential price tag. The defender is expected to command a fee in the range of €60 to €70 million, a figure that wouldn’t be out of reach for a club of City’s stature.

Guardiola, known for his meticulous approach to building a squad, would be well aware of Lukeba’s ability to fit seamlessly into his tactical system. The Frenchman’s composure on the ball, ability to play out from the back, and strong aerial presence make him an ideal candidate for City’s possession-based football. In Guardiola’s system, centre-backs are expected to do more than defend; they are crucial in dictating the tempo and building play from deep positions.

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A Move to the Premier League?

As the summer of 2025 approaches, speculation around Lukeba’s future will undoubtedly intensify. While Leipzig may want to retain their defensive star, the lure of Premier League football, particularly at a club like Manchester City, could prove difficult to resist. Lukeba’s technical ability and defensive maturity would make him a standout addition to any top team, and the Premier League seems a natural next step for a player of his calibre.

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At just 21 years old, the French centre-back already possesses qualities that are perfectly suited to Guardiola’s style of play. His composure in possession, combined with his defensive solidity, could make him an important player for the club’s future. With City often targeting young talents who can grow into world-class players, Lukeba fits the mould of the type of player Guardiola seeks to develop into a leader in his defensive line.

While the reported fee of €60-70 million may raise eyebrows, Manchester City’s willingness to invest in young talent has often paid off, and Lukeba could follow in the footsteps of previous signings who have flourished under Guardiola’s guidance. Given the defender’s technical skill set and ability to adapt, City fans should be optimistic about what he could bring to the team, especially in a league as demanding as the Premier League.