Just a few days after David Luiz said that he would not comment on his future, Jose Mourinho has categorically stated that the player is not for sale. Luiz has been heavily linked with Barcelona, who are thought to have made a £35 million offer for him. Rather than come out and dismiss the speculation, Luiz chose to remain silent on his future.
Mourinho has reminded everyone – and possibly Luiz – that the Brazilian still has four years left on his contract, and it puts the club in a strong position. Dismissing suggestions that a £45 million bid would be enough to prize him away from Stamford Bridge, Mourinho has stated that he is not for sale at any price.
“No chance he is going to leave. He is a player we want to keep. He is a player with four years (on his) contract, he just signed a contract last year.
“We like him. He is an important player for the club, and the club is not ready to sell him for any price.
“The last quotes I read were Luiz saying he is not speaking about clubs when he is with the national team, which is a fantastic quote that I appreciate.” – Mourinho on David Luiz to Sky Sports.
Interestingly, the transfer record for a defender stands at £35 million. This was the fee paid by French giants PSG for the transfer of Thiago Silva from AC Milan. Silva is an outstanding defender and is totally worth that fee. Is Luiz worth more than Silva?
Cameroon international Samuel Eto‘o has emerged as a surprise transfer target for Chelsea in the last few days. Mourinho, who has worked with Eto’o in the past, has welcomed the links.
“I am always happy that somebody that worked with me previously is happy to be back and work with me again.
“That is a good feeling that I have, when I read something that Samuel is keen. It is fantastic for us, but we are going to see what happens.” – Mourinho on Samuel Eto’o.
As the Rooney transfer drags on, Mourinho’s comments hint that fans should not be surprised to see Eto’o sign for Chelsea.