CHELSEA are confident they have clinched the signing of centre-back David Luiz for £21m.
The impending transfer from Benfica will end manager Carlo Ancelotti’s search for a defender, which has been his priority in the window.
Luiz, 23, has been capped four times by Brazil and his arrival will give the Double winners a huge boost, as he can also play at left-back. The only drawback is that he has played for Benfi ca in the Champions League this season so won’t be eligible for Chelsea in that competition.
The Blues have spent weeks negotiating with Benfi ca and may also allow Paulo Ferreira to move back to Portugal as part of the deal. Benfi ca president Luis Filipe Vieira was in London this weekend holding negotiations with Blues officials, who feel they have got their man finally.
“Chelsea will sign Luiz for 25m Euros,” said a source close to the negotiations last night.
Chelsea have needed defensive cover this season with John Terry, Alex and Branislav Ivanovic all being troubled by injury.
Brazilian Alex, 28, is still out after having an op and skipper Terry has been struggling with an injury over the past few days, but is still expected to play at Bolton tonight.
Source
Luiz, 23, has been capped four times by Brazil and his arrival will give the Double winners a huge boost, as he can also play at left-back. The only drawback is that he has played for Benfi ca in the Champions League this season so won’t be eligible for Chelsea in that competition.
The Blues have spent weeks negotiating with Benfi ca and may also allow Paulo Ferreira to move back to Portugal as part of the deal. Benfi ca president Luis Filipe Vieira was in London this weekend holding negotiations with Blues officials, who feel they have got their man finally.
“Chelsea will sign Luiz for 25m Euros,” said a source close to the negotiations last night.
Chelsea have needed defensive cover this season with John Terry, Alex and Branislav Ivanovic all being troubled by injury.
Brazilian Alex, 28, is still out after having an op and skipper Terry has been struggling with an injury over the past few days, but is still expected to play at Bolton tonight.
Source
