Rumour: Barcelona’s pursuit of Chelsea’s David Luiz boosted after transfer ban lifted

David Luiz

Barcelona’s pursuit of Chelsea defender David Luiz has been given a huge boost following the news that the La Liga outfit’s summer transfer embargo has been lifted by FIFA, pending the outcome of an appeal, report Metro.

The Catalans were initially hit with a ban that meant they would be unable to bring new players to the Camp Nou for the next two transfer windows following accusations surrounding their conduct regarding foreign youth players, but have successfully negotiated a deal that will allow them to continue their transfer activity in the summer with no restrictions.

As a result, the club’s hierarchy have made Blues defender Luiz one of their top priorities at the end of the season. There are widespread doubts about the ability of their back line, which was cruelly exposed during Barcelona’s defeat to Atletico Madrid in the Champions League, along with the Copa del Rey loss to arch rivals Real Madrid.

With club legend Carles Puyol set to depart in the summer, a centre-back is a necessity in order to provide support for Gerard Pique as Barcelona look to bolster their defensive options and challenge for silverware next season.

Luiz is reported to be settled at Stamford Bridge but manager Jose Mourinho is believed to be willing to listen to offers for the 27-year-old. The Portuguese prefers his defenders to be steady and solid, while Luiz’s lapses in concentration suggest he is not well suited to Mourinho’s methods.

Meanwhile, Barca, who relish a defender that can carry the ball out of defence, could offer upwards of £20 million and the deal is expected to take place early in the summer before the World Cup starts.

David Luiz has made just one defensive error in the Premier League for Chelsea this season.