Reports have linked Juventus and Manchester United with Chelsea defender, David Luiz, who is set to leave the Blues a second time in 4 years. He might not feature for the team in a Chelsea shirt again with youngster Christensen well settled in the centre back position.
A surprising revelation yet not unlikely, that the 30-year-old might just leave the club in the January transfer window. After hearing Conte’s statements about the Brazilian still a part of his plans for this season, it is surprising to hear about the contradiction.
Luiz was one of the club’s best defenders under Conte in Chelsea’s previous title-winning season but has not featured for his side in recent times. He was dropped from the squad after a poor defensive display in a 0-3 loss to AS Roma, ahead of Chelsea’s clash with Manchester United in the Premier League. As per reports, Luiz faced heavy criticism from Conte after the match and had decided to confront the Italian over singling him out for the defeat. The exchange did not sit well with the manager as Luiz saw himself get banished from the training session ahead of the matchup with Mourinho’s men. He saw his side win the game 1-0 at Stamford Bridge from the stands.
Luiz’s last appearance came in a 0-4 win against Qarabag Agdam in 22nd November. But ever since then, reports claim he is suffering from heavy inflammation in his knees. The Brazilian appeared for light training sessions all by himself mostly restricted to the pool or the treatment room.
Luiz has been valued at £23million with his contract set to end in the summer of 2018.
Juventus are currently dealing with the shock transfer move of Leonardo Bonucci to AC Milan at the beginning of the season. Their backline mostly features Giorgio Chiellini and Medhi Benatia with a 36-year-old Andreas Barzagli as their best rotational option. Massimiliano Allegri is facing heavy competition from rival sides Napoli and Inter Milan in their pursuit of a 7th consecutive league title. Luiz might not be the perfect option for the club’s future but he will be valuable in providing depth to the squad.
On the other hand, Jose Mourinho is currently dealing with the injury of star centre-back, Eric Bailey. He has been ruled out for a significant amount of time and might not recover before the later stages of the season. Although Bailey’s talents might not be replaced, Luiz is still a heavy defensive unit with a certain amount of offensive qualities. He too can be a good addition to the squad and be part of back 3 defence line under Mourinho.
