Former Arsenal defender, Martin Keown, has warned manager, Unai Emery, that signing David Luiz from Chelsea, would be a huge mistake.
The experienced Brazil international is keen to swap West for North London on deadline day, with his relationship with Frank Lampard having spectacularly deteriorated over the course of the last few days.
Luiz was told to train away from the rest of Chelsea’s first team squad on Wednesday, with Lampard fearing the 32-year-old had become a disruptive influence ahead of Sunday’s Premier League opener against Manchester United.
Emery is desperate to sign a new centre-half, particularly in light of Laurent Koscielny’s acrimonious departure.
Keown believes Luiz’s expansive passing range would suit Arsenal’s style.
But the Gunners’ weakness in midfield would leave him isolated and vulnerable.
“If I was at Arsenal and had the ear of Unai Emery, I would be advising my manager not to sign David Luiz.
“Walk away from this deal. This is not the defender for you. It’s too high risk.
“Yes, Arsenal want a centre back, but is Luiz the answer to their prayers? I don’t think so.
“The way the 32-year-old plays, he would be exposed in that Arsenal defence. He would not get the same protection that he enjoys at Chelsea, where N’Golo Kante patrols in front of the back line.
“In possession, Luiz is a wonderful passer, but he makes mistakes when playing as part of a back four.
“He has a tendency to lose his marker and is one of those all-or-nothing players — if he doesn’t win the ball in a challenge, then congratulations because you’re in,” Keown told the Daily Mail.
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