According to Sky Sports journalist, Dharmesh Sheth, as cited by Express, Arsenal are on the verge of securing the services of David Luiz. The Chelsea defender refused to train with the team on Wednesday in an attempt to force a move to Emirates. And Sheth believes that the transfer could be completed by tomorrow morning, thus becoming Arsenal’s fifth signing of the summer.
David Luiz is the real leader Arsenal needed
Laurent Koscielny turned from a hero to a villain after refusing to travel with the team in the pre-season tour to the US earlier this summer. The Frenchman was determined to leave the club and that he did, joining Bordeaux. But, at the same time, he received numerous criticism from the Arsenal fans.
As for the club itself, they are now keen to find a new leader after losing their club captain. Luiz, in that regard, could be a valuable signing in terms of leadership. Although the Brazilian ace will not necessarily be appointed as the club’s next captain, his ability to motivate his team from the back, coupled with his aggression could make him a fierce leader at the back for Arsenal.
Experience could be key
Arsenal, despite their exploits in the transfer market this summer, are still a young team right now. They have the likes of Nicolas Pepe, Rob Holding, Dani Ceballos and Matteo Guendouzi, among many others, who will be considered as options for the first-team.
Therefore, adding some experience into the mix could be essential for the Gunners if they are to maintain the balance of the squad. Luiz, to that end, can surely provide the experience they seek. The Brazilian is no stranger to the Premier League, having made 248 competitive appearances for Chelsea.
The 32-year-old also featured in 89 matches for Paris Saint-Germain and 130 games for SL Benfica in all competitions. Besides, he has won 56 caps for the Selecao – making him one of the most experienced defenders playing in England. And this said experience could be invaluable for an otherwise young Arsenal set up.
He can offer tactical versatility
Aside from leadership and experience, another vital aspect of Luiz’s game is that he can provide versatility. Though a centre-back by trade, the Brazilian international can also operate in the holding midfield role. He has featured in that position numerous times during his spell at Chelsea.
It could offer additional tactical choices for Unai Emery, especially if he needs the presence of a robust figure at the base of the 4-2-3-1. Additionally, Luiz is a threat from set-pieces, thanks to his heading prowess. That means the Spaniard can use him as plan B and deploy him as a target man, should his team fail to breach any well-disciplined defensive setup – adding another dimension to Arsenal’s tactical game.
Therefore, it’s probably fair to acknowledge that signing Luiz will be no less than masterstroke from Emery and Raul Sanllehi this summer.
