As per latest transfer news, Chelsea appear to be edging past Liverpool in the hunt for defender Castello Lukeba.
Castello Lukeba on Chelsea Radar
Castello Lukeba’s rise has turned him into one of the most sought-after young defenders in Europe. The buzz around him keeps growing. The 22-year-old has shown a great level of calm, speed and confidence. That has appealed to the biggest clubs. The winter window is shaping up to be a real test of who wants him the most.
Chelsea have moved early. They have been tracking him for months. The word from people close to the talks is that they are now in the strongest position. The West London club are ready to act fast while others wait for the market to settle.
Meanwhile, Liverpool admire him as well. In addition, a few more Premier League sides have asked for updates. But, no one has stepped forward with the same intent.
Drop In Price Tag
Lukeba’s release clause looked like a wall that no one wanted to climb. Also, €90m is a heavy number for a player still learning the game at RB Leipzig. Although, Leipzig are now willing to discuss a fee closer to €60m in January. That has changed the mood around the deal completely. A discount of that size has invited fresh interest, though Chelsea remain the ones pushing hardest.
The clause will drop again next summer. That said, it could spark an even bigger chase, but the Blues want to avoid that scramble. They believe moving now gives them a cleaner shot. It’s clear the club see Lukeba as a long-term solution and not just a short-term fix.
Author’s opinion:
Chelsea look serious, and they rarely move this early unless they feel the player fits their project. If they stay on the front foot, they should have enough momentum to finish the deal.
As featured on Chelseanews.com
