Liverpool given green light to sign next Ibrahima Konate for €70m | OneFootball

Liverpool could pick up the next Ibrahima Konate for €70m. That's been given a green light.

Liverpool will look to replace Ibrahima Konate this summer as he's set to leave with the end of his contract. Perhaps a new one is signed but this late in the game, the Reds must seek replacements.

One prime option is Castello Lukeba at RB Leipzig. The Frenchman is essentially Konate 2.0, such are the similarities.

Much like the Liverpool star, Lukeba is a young French centre-back who traded his domestic league for the development program at RB Leipzig. Again like Konate, there's a sense that it's time for him to move on for a profit - something Liverpool took advantage of in 2022.

Four years later, they're at it again. Lukeba is available, per Philipp Hinze, who reports that both player and club feel the timing is right.

Leipzig will actually accept a deal under his release clause, too. That clause stands at €80m but a deal could happen for as low as €65m.

Liverpool must find a replacement for Konate. Repeating exactly what got them Konate in the first place may well be the answer.

Castello Lukeba: Situation Summary

RB Leipzig Form and Development

Castello Lukeba remains a cornerstone of the RB Leipzig defence as of March 2026. The 23-year-old Frenchman has been a consistent starter, helping the club maintain a strong push for a top-four Bundesliga finish. Known for his elite recovery speed and composure on the ball, Lukeba has recorded a passing accuracy of over 90% this season. Despite a brief spell on the sidelines in February due to a minor knee injury, he has returned to full fitness and continues to be one of the most reliable young centre-backs in Germany.

Transfer Status and Elite Interest

Lukeba’s future is the subject of intense speculation ahead of the summer 2026 transfer window. While his current contract runs until 2029, a release clause valued at approximately €70 million is expected to become active this summer. Premier League clubs, including Arsenal and Manchester United, have reportedly sent scouts to monitor his progress. Real Madrid is also rumoured to be considering him as a long-term defensive solution. While Leipzig is keen to keep him, the defender is reportedly open to a new challenge if a major European side meets his valuation.