The case of David Luiz would have been settled had Arsenal FC activated the clause early on. But of course, there were plenty of factors that came into play. The most popular of them all is the COVID-19 pandemic, something that has affected the financial capacity of clubs moving forward.
Regardless, most felt that the Brazilian would likely remain at Emirates Stadium. There were already indications that his contract would be settled. That includes his relationship with Mikel Arteta which is reportedly going well. Though he disappointed in his return against Manchester City, one game is unlikely to change the mind of Arteta and management. There are factors to consider - one of which is the long lull caused by the pandemic.
As far as the deal Luiz will get, his agent claims that the chances of his client staying at Emirates Stadium is high in a report from Sky Sports. With Arteta facing the prospect of not securing his transfer targets, the focus now shifts on the current talent that deserves keeping. Without question, Luiz is one of those players.
"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."
Arsenal has several players they plan to keep. Aside from Luiz, it appears they have already settled the issue with Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang. Aside from the two big names, other players need addressing. These are William Saliba and Pablo Mari. These are key pieces for Arsenal as they continue to rebuild and adapt to the system of Arteta.
As for targets, there are still notable names that Arteta will target. That includes Thomas Partey who they can acquire at a lower but reasonable price. The fee to get the Ghanaian player is $56.7 million. However, Atletico Madrid is allegedly willing to lower the asking price for as long as it remains reasonable. A reason behind the sudden change of heart for Partey is that Atletico wants some flexibility heading towards the transfer window. Of the players on their end, the Ghanaian football player was the most logical one who carried plausible remuneration.
Arteta has been criticized for his plans but the Spanish coach is unlikely to be affected. He has been hailed for turning the thing around, particularly on players who were lost under the watch of Unai Emery. The only thing left now is for him to prove his critics wrong.
