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Kia Joorabchian comments on Arsenal defender and client David Luiz
that David Luiz is set to enter sit-down talks with Arsenal over possibly extending his contract with the Gunners – and stated that the Brazilian is very happy in north London.
Sky Sports claimed in an exclusive last week that 33-year-old Luiz was just weeks away from seeing his Gunners contract expire – despite it being originally believed that he agreed a two-year deal following his move from Chelsea last summer.
Former PSG and Chelsea defender Luiz has spoken of his desire to return to Benfica at some point before he retires, and such a move could materialise this summer if an extension is not agreed.
His agent Joorabchian, renowned for orchestrating Carlos Tevez and Javier Mascherano’s surprise moves to West Ham, has stated that Luiz is keen to remain at Arsenal and that talks will be held with the Arsenal board as soon as possible.
“He’s very happy at Arsenal,” “He has an extremely good relationship with both the coach and the sporting director. He has good relationships all throughout the club, right up to the owner. He respects everybody.
“David will sit down with Arsenal before the season begins, have his conversations and they will both decide if he will stay or not. That will come before the season starts. The chances are very high [of Luiz being at Arsenal next season].
“There is no desire to leave. But again, we are going to live in a ‘new’ normal, we will have to see what Arsenal’s position will be. But I believe there is a wish from both sides to continue.”
TBR’s view – Arsenal should get rid, and start the new era under Arteta
It has been a number of years since Arsenal had a solid defence capable of offering trust and striking fear into their opponents. A number of experienced defenders have come and gone – but surely it is now time for something different.
Luiz, Sokratis and Shkodran Mustafi have all struggled this season. Mikel Arteta, meanwhile, has been keen to offer younger players a chance and that is just what he needs to do at the back. Rob Holding, Calum Chambers and William Saliba are the future.
Bring in a young, powerful defender such as Dayot Upamecano and let those players lead Arsenal back into the top four – rather than continuing to place their faith in the likes of £8million signing Luiz.
