Barca Make Firm Bid For Chelsea Defender

Barca Make Firm Bid For Chelsea Defender

Chelsea defender David Luiz is being targeted by Spanish giants Barcelona, who are reportedly offering a fee in the region of £34.5 million to secure the services of the strong Brazilian center back.

Jose Mourinho has been training the squad in his second stint at the club, with the side currently in the last phase of their pre-season tours. The Portuguese boss will know the importance of getting these early wins, and building a rapport between the players and himself. The Barclays Premier League season kicks off in less than two weeks, and Chelsea are currently in the United States, participating in the International Champions Cup with Premier League rivals Everton as fellow participants. The cup also includes two Spanish sides in Real Madrid and Valencia, accompanied by Inter, AC Milan and Juventus from the Italian front. The only participation from the host nation is through the Los Angeles Galaxy side.

Luiz has been a breath of fresh air at Chelsea, and his physicality has tested many Premier League attackers to the best of their ability. His no-nonsense approach to defending and ruthlessness in the opposition penalty area makes him not just a good defender but also an impressive attacker during corner kicks. His sweet right foot can also be useful during free kicks, and his versatility was proven when interim boss Rafa Benitez opted to play him in midfield in several occasions last year.

The Brazilian central defender has been a strong influence on the Chelsea back line, but faces competition from two players who most definitely will be playing for their national sides next summer at the FIFA World Cup if they qualify. Gary Cahill and Branislav Ivanovic have formed a strong partnership, and that could prompt Luiz to force a move out if Mourinho plans to keep him on the bench.

According to Daily Mail, Barcelona are ready to offer Luiz a contract to give him a regular starting eleven spot despite having quality defenders in their squad. It remains unclear though whether Mourinho would limit his options in defence by selling Luiz to a European rival – it does seem unlikely though as Luiz is not only a fan favourite but also is virtually irreplaceable.