KEY POINTS

  • David Luiz agrees to a two-year deal with Marseille
  • Rennes FC tried to make a run at Luiz but failed
  • William Saliba could be the next signing for Marseille

David Luiz of Arsenal has finally found a new home, and it will be with Olympique de Marseille.

This foils any plans that Stade Rennais FC had, holding direct talks with the Brazilian defender that pundits claim put them at par with Les Phoceens.

All that came to a close after the Brazilian reportedly agreed to a two-year deal with Marseille, Le10 Sport reported.

The new pact will start once Luiz's current contract with Arsenal expires on June 30.

Before that, Les Rennais reportedly spearheaded direct talks with the Brazilian player to lure him to the Ligue 1 side.

That move improved their chances--with most believing it became a head-to-head battle with Marseille according to a separate report from Le10Sport.

Luiz made 73 appearances across all competition for the Gunners last season since arriving from Chelsea in 2019.

However, he has struggled to hit his stride at the Emirates Stadium and is expected to leave the team this summer.

Luiz was on holiday, but that did not stop Rennes from trying their luck on the Brazilian player.

No further details were divulged. However, most felt it all boiled down to the money being offered as well as the length of the contract.

Aside from that, there is the kind of European competition they are in. Rennes have only qualified for the Conference League. Meanwhile, Marseille is in the Europa League.

With Marseille offering a two-year deal, the chase for David Luiz has finally come to a close.

Sampaoli’s efforts paid off and now they brace for an interesting season with a talented lineup.

Luiz will join Francis Coquelin, Stephy Mavididi and Matteo Guendouzi next season. However, it appears Marseille is not yet done with words that they also have William Saliba on their radar.

Arsenal defender David Luiz shone against Manchester City
Arsenal defender David Luiz shone against Manchester City POOL / MATTHEW CHILDS

Saliba is another player from Arsenal that most believe would leave next.

He is not seen as an essential part of Mikel Arteta’s plans. However, the French player appears to prefer staying with OGC Nice but on loan.

If Marseille can complete a permanent move, Saliba will most likely prefer that. Moreover, the Gunners prefer a sale than loaning out the 20-year-old defender.

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