Rafael Benitez’s past comments about Newcastle United target David Luiz

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Newcastle United are said to be working on a deal for Chelsea defender David Luiz.

According to the Northern Echo, Newcastle United are lining up a bid for Chelsea defender David Luiz, and from Rafael Benitez’s past comments about the Brazilian international it is hardly a surprise.

Benitez worked with Luiz at Chelsea, earlier in the pair’s respective careers, and is a big admirer of the centre-back.

Indeed, when asked about Luiz back in 2013, Benitez claimed that the defender was one of the best players in the Premier League.

The Spanish boss said to the Independent: “David Luiz is one of the best players in the Premier League, by miles.

“He’s miles away from a lot of players and one of the best, without a doubt.

“The good thing about him is that he is really good now. He can do a lot of things, almost everything, really well, better than the majority of players. He is keen to learn. But he is still a young player and doing really well. He can become a lot better.”

Newcastle are now said to be attempting to negotiate a potential loan deal for Luiz.

At this stage the transfer is a long way off, as Newcastle simply cannot afford to pay Luiz’s wages in full, but they are still hopeful that a deal could be done.

The Magpies realise that there is a need to add quality to their squad, as they have failed to win any of their last nine Premier League matches.

Newcastle are now in 18th place in the top flight standings, and there are serious concerns that they could slip straight back into the Championship, unless Benitez gets his January spending right.