Report: Arsenal in advanced talks to sign Chelsea star David Luiz

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French newspaper L’Equipe have claimed that Arsenal are in advanced talks to complete a sensational deal for Chelsea centre-back David Luiz before Thursday’s deadline.

Arsenal are said to be on the lookout for a new centre-back after selling Laurent Koscielny to Bordeaux, following a summer that saw the Frenchman refuse to join the squad on a pre-season tour of the US.

Somewhat surprisingly, that replacement could be none other than Brazil international and Chelsea favourite David Luiz – despite the 32-year-old having two years left on his £120k-a-week contract (Spotrac) at Stamford Bridge.

It appears that Luiz is desperate to move across London and join Chelsea’s rivals Arsenal, refusing to train in order to force through a move on Wednesday. Luiz has agreed a move to north London, but Chelsea are being stubborn.

Arsenal boss Unai Emery sold David Luiz in the summer of 2016 back to Chelsea from Paris Saint-Germain, which makes a move even more shocking. It remains to be seen if an agreement is met before Thursday’s 5pm deadline.

TBR’s view – Luiz would be a stunning signing for Arsenal

It is likely to be one of the most astounding transfers of the window. Luiz’s move back to Chelsea in the summer of 2016 – which was completed on deadline day – was one of the most surprising deadline-day moves of all time.

Now, this one could eclipse it. To swap Chelsea for Arsenal – the bitterest of London rivals – with 24 hours left in the window, is one hell of a statement by the Gunners. It would be a stunning signing for Emery’s men.