Real Madrid needs to strengthen their center of defense immediately. It seems that Florentino Pérez is moving quickly to try to close a transfer as soon as possible. Various digital media outlets, including Defensa Central, have news on the matter. They report the president is willing to pay between 40 and 45 million euros to sign Castello Lukeba from RB Leipzig.
Castello Lukeba recently renewed his contract until June 30, 2029 but he wouldn't be against moving to Real Madrid. At the moment, his value is 40 million euros, a figure that Florentino Pérez is willing to pay to take him immediately. He's one of the options that the white club likes the most, but it's not the only one.
What Florentino is clear about is that he's not willing to pay an exorbitant amount for a center-back. The investment for Castello Lukeba would be high but necessary if the rumors are true. There are certain limits but they are expected to be followed in this operation. Before this agreement, the president of Real Madrid had failed to achieve the big transfer he wanted.
Florentino Pérez had planned to make this investment last summer transfer market but everything went to waste. The main target was Leny Yoro, for whom he'd offered 35 million euros as he was one year away from the end of his contract. In the end, the Frenchman went to Manchester United, who paid double that amount. Lille achieved its objective.
Florentino Has a Plan B for Castello Lukeba
However, the investment for Castello Lukeba would be too high if Leipzig decides to ask for more money. That's why the president of Real Madrid is considering other alternatives. Plan B seems to be clear.
In the event that Lukeba fails, the possibility of reinforcing the defense with a top-level, veteran footballer who wears the Spain jersey is once again on the table: Aymeric Laporte.
Laporte has experience of the highest levelin Spain but right now he's playing for Al-Nassr. Last summer he was offered the chance to play for Real Madrid but Florentino rejected it due to his high price. The idea was also to reinforce defense with a player with a better future, that is, a promising youngster.
Despite everything, the search in the market is not bearing the fruits that Florentino expected. The profile that was so much wanted is not found and the reality is that the option of Aymeric Laporte is gaining relevance again. He would arrive knowing first-hand his role as a secondary player and with the intention of contributing from the first moment.
Florentino is clear: He has 45 million euros ready for Castello Lukeba; take it or leave it. There are other options.