IT’S GUNNER BE TIGHT TO KEEP LUIZ
ARSENAL are ready to offer David Luiz a new one-year extension – but it could be on reduced terms.
Gunners boss Mikel Arteta is keen to keep the centre-half, 33, (below) for next season as his deal expires on June 30.
Luiz’s agent Kia Joorabchian has said there is a “very high chance” the Brazilian will stay at the Emirates after contract talks.
Luiz joined Arsenal from Chelsea last summer for £8million on a £130,000-a-week deal which was for one year with a 12-month option, but there has been a big squeeze on cash at Arsenal due to coronavirus.
It could mean the Gunners offer Luiz a contract based more on appearances and incentives in order to compromise, with all parties keen to get it done.
ENGLAND boss Gareth Southgate will ban himself from going to games when the Premier League season resumes.
Southgate (left) has decided it would be inappropriate for him to attend matches to scout players, due to the fact the number of people allowed into stadiums will be severely restricted.
Top-flight games will resume on June 17 behind closed doors following a three-month suspension of the season.
The ultimate decision on who is allowed into stadiums will rest with the Premier
League and police, who have calculated it needs a minimum of 300 people for a match to take place. These include players, officials, stewards, security, medics, media and host broadcast personnel.
But the Three Lions boss won’t miss out. All the remaining 92 matches will be streamed live to his computer so he can watch them at home in Harrogate. An FA source said: “Gareth hasn’t asked to attend games, due to it not being considered essential.”
All those allowed into grounds will have to be tested beforehand as well as complete health questionnaires.