Real Madrid have reportedly set their sights on trying to sign RB Leipzig defender Castello Lukeba.
With Nacho Fernandez having departed the Bernabeu during the summer transfer window, there appeared to be an urgency to find a younger replacement.
However, Real would reach the end of the market without signing a new centre-back, instead relying on their current crop and reintegrating Jesus Vallejo back into the fold.
Carlo Ancelotti also has the option of promoting academy talent into the senior setup, something which could materialise as the season progresses and players require more of a rest.
Los Blancos had been keen to add Leny Yoro to their squad, only for Manchester United to edge out their fellow European giants to get a deal over the line for the Lille teenager.
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Real turn attention to Lukeba?
As a result, Real president Florentino Perez has been left to turn his attention elsewhere ahead of 2025, there already being a desire to sign Bayern Munich left-back Alphonso Davies on a free transfer.
None of the centre-backs currently at Carlo Ancelotti's disposal are below the age of 26, emphasising why Perez and Ancelotti need to find opportunities in the upcoming transfer windows.
According to Marca, there is not necessarily a rush, but RB Leipzig defender Lukeba is on their shortlist of potential additions
The report suggests that the 21-year-old was scouted by Real when Leipzig squared off against Atletico Madrid in the Champions League last week.
Lukeba featured in a 2-1 reverse to Atletico, playing the full 90 minutes, while he has also made three Bundesliga starts during 2024-25.
As well as participating in a 3-2 victory over Bayer Leverkusen, clean sheets were kept in the games against VfL Bochum and Union Berlin.
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What kind of fee would be required?
With the France Under-21 international only just over a year into a five-year contract, Leipzig do not have to be in any rush to sell.
They parted with €34.6m to secure a deal with Lyon for Lukeba's signature and would demand at least that fee to give the green light to a sale.
As a result of Lukeba already making 46 outings for Leipzig in all competitions, the likelihood is they would demand well in excess of £40m given his development in Germany.
Darren Plant
