David Luiz reveals Zlatan Ibrahimovic convinced him to make the £50m switch from Chelsea to PSG
David Luiz has revealed that Zlatan Ibrahimovic was a major influence in his £50m move to Paris Saint-Germain from Chelsea, reports the Daily Star.
The deal is reported to be worth £40-50 million, making Luiz the most expensive defender in the world.
When speaking about PSG star Ibrahimovic, Luiz said: “I already know him. I played against him when he was at Inter Milan, and then again during that famous match with Chelsea [Paris 3-1 Chelsea].
“At half-time, in the tunnel we spoke a lot. He was also a big factor in my decision to join Paris Saint Germain.
“He always told me that he wanted me to play in his team. During the match, we were involved in a number of duels.
“He spoke a lot… Unfortunately, Ibra got injured in that game. But at any rate, he’s a great player and a good guy.”
Luiz will also link up with a number of his Brazil teammates at PSG, including Thiago Silva, his defensive partner at international level. Elsewhere among the Brazilian contingent in the French capital are Lucas Moura and supposedly Barcelona-bound Marquinhos.
Luiz added:
“The fact that so many Brazilians already play for Paris Saint-Germain will be a big help, without a doubt. They are great players, but also great friends.
“The fact that they are there will help we settle in quickly, every day.
“The atmosphere between the Brazilians is already very good. We will be able to bring that atmosphere to Paris Saint-Germain, and that will help us get the results we need on the pitch. Everyone wins!”
Luiz is currently attending to his international duties with the South American nation at the World Cup and his performance during the competition’s opener alongside Thiago Silva may well provide a source of encouragement among the Parc des Prince faithful. The Brazilian duo combined to keep a quality Croatia side at bay after a Neymar brace had enabled A Selecao to take the lead from one goal down.
Oscar later settled the scoreline at 3-1.