After reportedly rejecting opportunities to stay in Europe, the Brazilian is closing in on a return to his native Brazil with Flamengo. The 34-year-old is expected to sign for the Mengao soon.
By joining the Brazilian champions, the centre-back will put an end to his fourteen-year-long stay in Europe, during which time he represented Benfica, Chelsea, Paris Saint-Germain, and Arsenal. The Brazilian last played for the Gunners in the 2020/21 season, following which the two sides mutually decided not to renew his contract.
Luiz, reportedly, had opportunities to continue his career in Europe. The Brazilian was the subject of interest from Ligue 1 side Marseille, who embarked on a lavish spending spree this summer to mould the team in the image of head coach Jorge Sampaoli.
Earlier, he also rejected the chance to join recently promoted Serie A side Salernitana, and in the process, gave away the opportunity to link up with former Bayern Munich and Marseille wingman Franck Ribery.
Romano reports that Luiz will instead join Flamengo, with whom he has reached a verbal agreement regarding a contract until December 2022. He will link up with former Chelsea teammate Kenedy and Manchester United loanee Andreas Pereira at the Maracana.
Flamengo, meanwhile, will hope Luiz’s signing propels them back to the top of the table. The incumbent champions of Brazil are languishing in the fifth spot on the table, having won just 10 of their 16 matches so far this season.
The Mengao have also reached the semi-finals of the Copa Libertadores, where they’ll face Ecuadorian side Barcelona SC (September 23). They are also only a handful of wins away from winning the Copa Do Brasil.
Luiz will add pedigree to the team, having won several domestic and international championships during his time in Europe. The Brazil international won Premier League, Ligue 1, Premiera Liga and three continental cups.
