“Contacts established” by Manchester United for £74m Bundesliga star dubbed ‘the next Josko Gvardiol’

Manchester United have reportedly established contact to sign a £74 million Bundesliga star dubbed as “the next Josko Gvardiol.”

Manchester United will look to strengthen their defence in the summer transfer window as Rúben Amorim aims to address his side’s defensive frailties.

The club made additions in January, bringing in young centre-back Ayden Heaven from Arsenal and wing-back Patrick Dorgu from Lecce. However, concerns remain, especially with Lisandro Martínez now ruled out until November.

Several departures are expected in the summer. Victor Lindelöf will leave when his contract expires in June, while Jonny Evans is also likely to move on.

Doubts also surround the futures of Luke Shaw and Tyrell Malacia. Shaw has not started for United in nearly a year due to injury struggles, while Malacia, currently on loan at PSV, is not part of Amorim’s long-term plans.

United establish contact for £74m defender

With Amorim’s club eyeing new defensive reinforcements, a fresh report from Sky Sports in France has stated that United are one of multiple clubs who have “established contact” for RB Leipzig defender Castello Lukeba.

According to journalist Sacha Tavolieri, although the 22-year-old Bundesliga star is of interest to Real Madrid, the potential transfer is being taken more seriously by Premier League clubs, with United, Liverpool and Chelsea all having written positive scouting reports on the centre-back.

Although the French international suffered a hamstring injury at the beginning of 2025, this has not put any of the three clubs off, with United no doubt needing a player such as him in Amorim’s squad.

However, the trio of English outfits have all been warned that in order to secure his transfer, they must pay his release clause, which sits at around £74 million.

Does Lukeba fit under Amorim at United?

Yes. United have a lack of left-footed players in Amorim’s current squad, with Martínez the only first-team centre-back who favours that foot, but Lukeba is a talent who does the same.

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Lukeba has been dubbed “the next Josko Gvardiol” by those who have watched him closely, and this is a type of profile that would thrive under Amorim.

The 40-year-old has often liked to see one of his three centre-backs step into the midfield to create an extra body and attacking outlet, and with Martínez out of action until next season, Lukeba could step into this roll perfectly.

He is also said to be very proficient with the ball at his feet, which is a trait many United defenders lack, and standing at six feet tall, he provides good height to the back line.

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