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Ligue 1 champions Paris Saint-Germain have signed Chelsea defender David Luiz for a fee worth approximately £40m. Chelsea’s official website confirmed the news and stated, “The move is now subject to David Luiz agreeing personal terms with PSG and passing a medical examination.”
Luiz, who can play as a centre back and as a defensive midfielder, had three years left in his contract after he had signed a five year deal with the Blues in September 2012.
The Brazilian had joined Chelsea in January 2011 for a fee of £21.3m. Although there was a lot of intereset from Barcelona, PSG have snapped him up in spite of the club being in trouble with UEFA over Financial Fair Play (FFP) rules.
The £40m fee will be a record breaking transfer for a defender. Thiago Silva, also at PSG, cost the French club £36m in 2012.
Luiz never established himself as a first choice defender in Jose Mourinho’s team and it is likely that the sale is seen as a move to get extra funds to make sure they comply with FFP regulations.
Luiz made 143 appearances in all competitions for Chelsea and also scored 12 goals in his time at Stamford Bridge.
The Brazilian thanked the Chelsea and its fans for their support over the three and a half seasons at the club.
"Thank you Chelsea for 3 years and a half of a great partnership. I gained friends, matches and titles that will always live on in my memory," he said.
"I thank the staff, players and fans! Geezers! This story wouldn't have been possible without you.
"I am sad to leave because of the friends that will stay but I am happy to be on my way to another big European club and to go to a city that has always fascinated me.
"This is a new stage and new challenges and I am sure that together we will go even further. Allez Paris!"
