David Luiz is one of the many players awaiting his fate. But given his credibility and value to Arsenal, it would be foolish to think that the Gunners would let him go easily. And it appears Mikel Arteta plans to address his status and the obvious outcome is seeing the Brazilian staying on at Emirates Stadium.
Arsenal overlooked a part in the contract of Luiz, which was to activate the second year of his stay. With the financial difficulties upon clubs, such raised questions on whether the Gunners could afford to keep the 33-year-old center-back. All that may have been put to rest when Arteta explained the importance the football player had in his plans. Further, Luiz's agent also mentioned via Sky Sports that the chances are high that Luiz will stay on and play for Arsenal.
"I am really happy with David, I want to keep him here with us. He's been a key role model since I joined," Arteta said. "I like what he produces on the pitch, I like his influence around the players and the club - I would love to keep him."
Arteta admits that the financial crunch has severely affected his planned acquisitions. With a limited budget, the best thing for him to do now is to focus on the players on hand. Luiz is a veteran and requires minimal orientation. But keeping him and his influence on the team is essential if the Gunners are to rise back in the ranks.
As for acquisitions, Arsenal is still expected to check out the market. However, their targets will be whittled down depending on the transfer fees for select players. One player who could make sense is Thomas Partey. Like the Gunners, Atletico Madrid is seeking flexibility to come to the next transfer window. Of the players in the mix that can aid them, Partey was singled out as the one returning good money. Los Indios is seeking $56.7 million for the Ghanaian player but is open to lowering their asking price.
As far as Luiz, the row between him and Arsenal should be settled in the coming weeks. There is no question that he is one of the recognized leaders of the club and someone who has gotten along well with Arteta. Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang is another player expected to be re-signed as well. Though the Gabon national aired his frustration on not having a deal yet, Arteta is expected to address that as well.
