Upamecano future uncertain: Bayern target RB Leipzig star Lukeba | OneFootball

Due to the uncertain future of Dayot Upamecano at FC Bayern, there could be a personnel shake-up in Munich's central defense in the summer of 2026. According to current reports, FCB has set its sights on Leipzig star Castello Lukeba.

Castello Lukeba is one of the most sought-after defensive players in the Bundesliga and could soon become a topic at FC Bayern.

The 22-year-old central defender is a regular at RB Leipzig and impresses with consistently strong performances. When asked about his future, the Frenchman remained notably calm: "I want to return to the Champions League with RB. What comes after that, we'll see," Lukeba explained in an interview with BILD.

The Frenchman has been repeatedly linked with FC Bayern in recent months. According to the paper, the defender remains a concrete option for the record champions.

Will Lukeba be Upamecano's successor at FC Bayern?

Photo: IMAGO

One thing is certain: by 2026 at the latest, things could get really exciting. Then, according to consistent reports, a release clause of 80 million euros will take effect. An amount that top clubs like FC Bayern might be willing to pay, especially since Munich needs to restructure their defense in the long term. Dayot Upamecano is negotiating an extension, but the talks are progressing very slowly. The French national player could leave FCB for free at the end of the season. Meanwhile, Minjae Kim is repeatedly linked with a transfer.

Lukeba, who has so far played one senior international match for France, remains reserved: "There are many rumors in football. I am a young player who wants to gain experience. It is important to keep a cool head."

For Leipzig, a departure would be a severe blow, especially to the direct competitor from Munich. However, due to the contractually fixed release clause, the Saxons are bound.

This article was translated into English by Artificial Intelligence. You can read the original version in 🇩🇪 here.