LUIZ IN LIMBO AS GUNNERS TRY TO BALANCE THE BOOKS
ARSENAL defender David Luiz is in limbo after it emerged that the 12-month extension option on his contract is yet to be activated.
The former Chelsea star joined at the start of the season on a one-year deal, with the option for an extra 12 months. But the Gunners are yet to extend the Brazilian’s contract and have shown no intention of doing so before next season, leaving Luiz’s future up in the air. Arsenal face a tough financial balancing act, exacerbated by the coronavirus crisis that has gripped all sports, including football.
The club will try to reduce their wage bill at the end of the season in an effort to stabilise their books.
Luiz, 33, earns about £120 000 a week – a hefty contract the club may decide is too expensive to extend.
William Saliba, 19, who spent this season on loan at St Etienne, will be available for selection next season and could be viewed as a replacement for Luiz.
But Luiz has been a key figure for coach Mikel Arteta since his arrival.
Technical director Edu is also an admirer of his compatriot, which could have a bearing on the final decision over whether to trigger the extension.
Arsenal may be waiting for confirmation of when the season will restart and finish before holding talks with Luiz.