Barcelona are reportedly preparing a €29m offer for Chelsea’s Brazilian center back David Luiz as the Catalonian club looks to strengthen its back-line ahead of the upcoming season, according to Goal.com.
Luiz has been a key player in Chelsea’s defense since his arrival at Stamford Bridge in 2011 from Benfica, helping the team win the Champions League in 2012, followed by the Europa League in 2013. And with Brazilian defensive partner Thiago Silva looking set to stay at Paris Saint-German, the current La Liga champions have shifted their attention to Luiz after making him their primary defensive target, Goal.com understands.
After bolstering its attack with fellow Brazilian Neymar, Barcelona are looking to add another big name to their roster after recently appointing Gerardo “Tata” Martino as manager.
Luiz is widely regarded as one of the best center backs in the world, and Barca are hoping to add his services to a defensive lineup that already includes world class players such as Gerard Pique, Carles Puyol, Javier Mascherano, Dani Alvez, and Jordi Alba.
Despite strong performances both for Chelsea and the Brazilian national team during this summer’s Confederations Cup, new Chelsea manager Jose Mourinho is unsure about Luiz’s defensive ability and is reportedly looking to cash in on the player, with 18-year-old Botafogo center-back Doria reportedly on the manager’s radar.
Discussions have already commenced between Barca and Luiz’s representatives, after the Catalonians stated their desire to specifically sign a left-sided center-back that can challenge club legend Puyol, who at age 35 is nearing the end of his career.
