Arsenal defender Luiz ‘offered to MLS franchise by agent’

James Holland
David Luiz Arsenal MLS F365

Arsenal centre-back David Luiz has been offered to an unnamed MLS team by his agent, according to reports.

The Brazil international, capped 56 times by his country, is nearing an Emirates exit this summer.

His contract expires in June and discussions are yet to begin with Arsenal chiefs over a new deal.


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According to CBS Sports, Luiz’s representatives have contacted an unnamed MLS franchise offering his services.

They have the chance to sign him for free under the Bosman ruling once his deal in north London runs out.

One sticking point for a move is the player’s wage demands. He currently earns a reported £120,000 a week at Arsenal, which is far more than what most MLS clubs would be willing to pay for a 34-year-old.

Luiz is more likely to remain in Europe with three teams chasing his signature.

Valencia and Napoli have been linked with the defender in recent months. He’s also previously signalled his desire to play for Benfica, whom he represented between 2007 and 2011.

Benfica legend Nuno Gomes recently hinted that his former team-mate could rejoin the Portuguese side.

He said: “Let’s see what happens. I remember that when he left Benfica he was very well adapted to Portugal in terms of his career on the pitch and his social life off the pitch.

“He was like a Portuguese already in terms of his way of life and culture. He struggled a little bit to leave because he was doing very well and was very well settled here. But the offer that he received he couldn’t refuse.

“He always said that one day he wanted to return. I don’t know if it will be possible or not, but I would love it to happen.”

Luiz has fallen down the pecking order at Arsenal this term. He’s been limited to 20 Premier League appearances due to Mikel Arteta’s preference of Rob Holding and Gabriel Magalhaes at centre-back.

He was left out of Arteta’s squad for all four league matches in April, before returning to the side for their recent 2-0 victory over Newcastle.

Arsenal take on Villarreal in a crucial Europa League semi-final second leg on Thursday evening.