Liverpool have ideal centre-back in Lukeba but may have to annoy pals at Leipzig

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Liverpool could be forced to annoy their friends at RB Leipzig as they continue their search for further new signings this summer and turn their attention to bolstering their defensive ranks. Jurgen Klopp is keen to acquire the services of at least one young central defender before the 2023/24 campaign begins, and Castello Lukeba could be his man.

After a rollercoaster of a campaign that saw the Reds rally late on to finish in the Europa League placings, the Reds are hoping to build on last season and reclaim their status as title contenders with the help of several new signings.

As part of a midfield overhaul, Dominik Szoboszlai and Alexis Mac Allister have arrived to replace several out-of-contract stars, such as James Milner and Naby Keita, with other signings in that department expected. However, attention is also being paid to Klopp’s defence.

Chelsea’s Levi Colwill and Wolfsburg star Micky van de Ven are among those admired at Anfield, but Liverpool could be overlooking another star in fear of ruining relations with Leipzig – Lukeba. The German outfit are desperate to secure the services of the French Under-21 international from Lyon this summer, with Foot Mercato that talks are set to re-open between the clubs imminently.

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Lukeba shone in the Ligue 1 last season, making 34 league appearances and scoring twice. The talented youngster showed experience beyond his years on a weekly basis at the Groupama Stadium, with scouts from around Europe monitoring his progress regularly.

Given that Lukeba does not turn 21 until December, having such top-level experience under his belt should catch the eye of Liverpool and he could be the ideal acquisition in Merseyside. With Virgil van Dijk and Ibrahima Konate starters at Anfield, there is no urgency to sign a ready-made star.

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Lukeba would therefore be given the opportunity to work with the aforementioned duo and develop, with the chance to feature when the squad is rotated in cup competitions and on the European stage. The 20-year-old has an incredibly high ceiling and Klopp could allow the Lyon academy product to thrive.

A fee in the region of £30million is expected to be enough to secure the signature of Lukeba, though it could leave Leipzig feeling somewhat unhappy given that they have built a strong relationship with Liverpool previously – as shown twice this summer with Szoboszlai being signed and Fabio Carvalho heading in the other direction on a season-long loan.

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