RB Leipzig is gearing up for significant changes as the club looks to restructure its squad during the upcoming transfer windows. The strategy has been motivated by recent performances and the contracts of several key players, including Yussuf Poulsen, Kevin Kampl, and Peter Gulacsi, who all see their deals expire in 2026. According to Get German Football News, Leipzig is willing to allow these long-standing players to enter the next season without renewing their contracts, potentially paving the way for them to leave.
While the futures of Poulsen, Kampl, and Gulacsi remain uncertain, Leipzig is already preparing for life without them. Marteen Vandevoordt, the goalkeeper who is expected to replace Gulacsi, is gradually receiving more game time this season. The club appear well stocked in the midfield with plenty of options available, but changes may still be necessary to address the inconsistency up front. When star attackers Loïs Openda and Benjamin Seško are sidelined, the quality of the squad appears to decline significantly.
Further complicate matters are the situations with midfielders Xaver Schlager and Amadou Haidara, both of whose contracts also expire in 2026. Schlager’s role has been impacted by injuries, particularly after suffering an ACL injury last season, leading to uncertainty over his future. Meanwhile, Haidara has struggled to find his form this year, leaving Leipzig to evaluate their options. While discussions about extending Schlager’s contract are anticipated at the end of the season, the club remains cautious about their overall midfield strategy.
Adding to the intrigue surrounding Leipzig’s transfer activity is defender Castello Lukeba, who has gathered considerable attention from several elite clubs, including Manchester United, Liverpool, and Chelsea. With the Reds currently seeking to bolster their defensive line, Lukeba reportedly has significant interest as he has impressed since joining Leipzig from Lyon. The France international has the chance to make waves this summer, particularly with his £74.5 million release clause set to activate on July 1, 2025.
German journalist Christian Falk noted on social media, "True: Real Madrid, Liverpool, Chelsea, and Manchester United have Castello Lukeba on their radar." This growing interest from some of Europe’s largest clubs reflects Lukeba’s rising profile, including the fact he was previously recognized for leading Europe’s top five leagues in interceptions during the 2022/23 season.
Despite the pressure from potential suitors, Leipzig seems unfazed. Given their financial stability and the readiness of alternatives, the club has the upper hand, especially as they are under no immediate pressure to sell. Nonetheless, as Falk elaborated, "Following the contract extension, the 22-year-old’s release clause will be €90 million for the upcoming transfer window." This clause would provide Leipzig with significant financial leverage should they choose to let Lukeba depart.
Real Madrid is reportedly eyeing Lukeba, particularly if their attempts to acquire Arsenal’s William Saliba fail. Madrid’s interest poses yet another challenge to English clubs seeking to sign the promising defender, who remains focused on opposing clubs when considering his future. Lukeba's contract negotiations over the past few months have cemented his place at Leipzig, but ambitions for higher-profile spots are ever-present.
Manchester United, with uncertain financial parameters, will eye opportunities like Lukeba but face challenges, particularly if their resources remain constrained. Meanwhile, Chelsea seeks to strengthen their defensive options, and Jurgen Klopp of Liverpool keeps his eyes on the center-back position amid injury disruptions and uncertainties over player contracts, including Virgil van Dijk.
The upcoming summer transfer window could be pivotal for RB Leipzig as they endeavor to refresh their roster. It will be interesting to see how the club balances its long-term strategies against the immediate needs for improvement on the pitch. With high-value players like Lukeba the subject of transfer discussions, Leipzig’s decisions will impact not only their squad but the balance of power within European football.