John Stones (30) has been a cornerstone of Manchester City’s defense for years. Six Premier League titles and 15 major trophies say it all. But injuries are becoming a concern, with just 16 league appearances last season and only six so far this term.
Now, according to Football Transfers, City are looking at RB Leipzig’s 21-year-old star Castello Lukeba as a potential successor.
Could Lukeba be the solution? And what’s it going to cost City to land the French defender? Let’s dive into the details.
What to Expect 🙂
What’s Happening at City?
City reportedly have “significant concerns” about Stones’ long-term availability, and Football Transfers claims the club is “exploring a move” for Lukeba to secure their future at the back.
The left-footed center-back joined Leipzig for €34 million from Lyon in 2023, filling the void left by Josko Gvardiol… ironically, now a City player himself.
But getting Lukeba won’t come cheap. His release clause is a hefty €90 million for the summer of 2025, though it will gradually decrease to €80 million in 2026 and €65 million in 2027.
Leipzig, with Lukeba under contract until 2029, are reportedly under no pressure to sell, according to Sky Germany’s Florian Plettenberg.
The Competition to Secure Lukeba
City aren’t the only ones keen on Lukeba. AS reports that Real Madrid are also monitoring the French defender as they plot an overhaul of their backline in 2025. With Eder Militao sidelined by an ACL injury, Madrid are eyeing multiple defensive reinforcements.
Chelsea are also said to be in the mix, according to Football Transfers. However, with Pep Guardiola’s contract extension providing stability, City could have the upper hand in the race to sign Lukeba.
Who Is Castello Lukeba?
Lukeba’s rise has been rapid.
- 2011: Joins Lyon’s academy at age 10.
- 2021: Makes his Ligue 1 debut at 18, plays 90 minutes, and scores his first senior goal that same year.
- 2023: Moves to Leipzig, replacing Gvardiol, and becomes a defensive stalwart.
- 2024: Wins silver at the Paris Olympics with France’s U-23 team and earns his first senior national team cap.
His style? Calm under pressure, lightning-quick, and comfortable with the ball at his feet. Add a knack for scoring important goals, and it’s easy to see why he’s drawing attention from Europe’s elite.
What’s Next?
Cityzens, Guardiola’s extension might just tip the scales in City’s favor. Stability at the helm is a huge draw for players like Lukeba, who’s on track to become one of the best defenders in Europe. But with competition from Madrid and Chelsea, the race is far from over.
According to sources, January is unlikely for any move, but summer 2025 could see a bidding war. Will City splash the cash now, or wait and hope for a discount down the line?
What’s your take, Blues? Is Lukeba the heir to Stones’ throne, or should City look elsewhere? One thing’s for sure… the transfer saga is just heating up.
