According to latest reports in Germany, Bayern Munich are targeting RB Leipzig’s Castello Lukeba.
Despite RB Leipzig’s disappointing 2024-25 season, the French U-21 international has shone brightly. Bayern face competition from Premier League clubs Liverpool and Tottenham, who are also interested in the 22-year-old defender.
Lukeba is reportedly open to a move, but RB Leipzig aim to develop him further and sell next summer.
His €90 million release clause has deterred suitors so far. Bayern are also considering Chelsea’s Renato Veiga, who nearly joined Borussia Dortmund last January, as an alternative.
Additionally, Bayern are intensifying their pursuit of Stuttgart’s Nick Woltemade. The German giants have offered the striker an eye-watering €7 million annual salary, potentially rising to €11 million with bonuses.
Stuttgart, in contrast, have proposed only a modest pay increase, making it difficult to retain Woltemade in their contract talks. Bayern’s manager, Vincent Kompany, plans to deploy Woltemade in a number 10 role behind England star Harry Kane.
Lukeba’s standout performances have made him a prime target, but RB Leipzig’s high valuation and long-term plans may complicate negotiations.
Meanwhile, Woltemade’s potential move to Bayern hinges on the significant financial incentive, which Stuttgart are unlikely to match. Both transfers highlight Bayern’s ambition to bolster their squad with young, versatile talents capable of competing at the highest level.
The coming months will be crucial as Bayern navigate these high-stakes transfer battles while facing stiff competition from abroad and within the Bundesliga.
For now, Bayern turn their attention to the crucial fixture against European champions PSG on Saturday.
Vincent Kompany’s men have been brilliant in the FIFA Club World Cup tournament so far. A win over the Parisiens will grant that safe passage into the semis.
