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Report: Arsenal tell £8m player they respect his contributions, but he’s leaving

Photo by Chloe Knott - Danehouse/Getty Images
Photo by Chloe Knott - Danehouse/Getty Images
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Arsenal have made it clear to David Luiz that they appreciate his contributions to the club, according to ESPN.

It has been reported that Luiz will leave Arsenal at the end of the season when his current contract with the Gunners runs out.

Arsenal have made it clear to the Brazilian defender their respect for his contributions, but the North London club are looking to strengthen their centre-back area with younger alternatives, according to the report.

Luiz joined Arsenal from Chelsea in the summer of 2019 for a transfer fee reported by Sky Sports to be worth £8 million.

The 34-year-old, who can also operate as a defensive midfielder, has been good for the club and has been a leader at the back.

The former Paris Saint-Germain star has had injury problems this season and has not been able to make a massive impact this season.

Luiz has made 17 starts and three substitute appearances in the Premier League and played seven times in the Europa League this season.

David Luiz of Arsenal during the Premier League match between Arsenal FC and Newcastle United at Emirates Stadium on February 16, 2020 in London, United Kingdom. (Marc Atkins/Getty Images)

During the 2019-20 campaign, the central defender made 32 starts and one substitute appearance in the Premier League and played five times in the Europa League.

Luiz is in mid-30s now, and Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has other options at centre-back, such as Pablo Mari, Rob Holding and Gabriel.

Moreover, William Saliba will be back at the Gunners from his loan spell in France.