An €80m release clause makes a January move to Barcelona impossible, but Castello Lukeba has still taken a decisive step towards the Catalan giants. The 23-year-old French centre-back has changed agencies and signed with Excellence Sport Nation, the same company that represents Jules Koundé. The RB Leipzig defender's new agent has already met Barcelona sporting director Deco. The interest is mutual and the France international enjoys the full backing of Barcelona's hierarchy, yet the German club have flatly ruled out letting a key player leave in mid-season. In June 2027, Lukeba's release clause drops to €65m (£55m), making the summer transfer window the ideal moment. Arsenal and Chelsea are also keeping a close eye on developments. For now, the move is blocked. Barcelona plan to fund a deal for the Frenchman with the €55m (£46m) Liverpool would pay to make Ronald Araujo's loan permanent, and in the meantime the Catalans are searching for a cut-price left-sided centre-back for the winter window.