Chelsea news: David Luiz set for Real Madrid move as Antonio Conte approves deal - report
REAL MADRID have moved a step closer to signing Chelsea star David Luiz on loan, according to reports.
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Luiz has been linked with a move to Spain with Real Madrid after angering Chelsea boss Antonio Conte in November.
The Brazilian dared to criticise his manager for his tactics in a 3-0 Champions League defeat to Roma at the Stadio Olympico.
Since then, though he has been plagued by injuries, Luiz has also found his path to the first team dropped by home-grown star Andreas Christensen.
And Spanish website Don Balon claim the former PSG star is edging closer towards a sensational loan move to Madrid with his future at Stamford Bridge up in the air.
It is said the Blues are willing to let the centre-back leave the club.
His decision to question Chelsea gaffer Conte has not gone down well, particularly given how they have bounced back from a torrid run of results to challenge for the league title.
The Italian, speaking today, opened the door to a possible Luiz deal by refusing to rule out the player leaving.
"I think it's not the time to talk about that, there are many games before the transfer market and now is not the right time to talk about that,” he said.
Don Balon say Madrid have long dreamed to signing Luiz.
Los Blancos are keen on defensive reinforcements as they aim to reel in Barcelona at the top of the La Liga table.
Sergio Ramos continues to rule over the back four at the Bernabeu.
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But Raphael Varane and Nacho Fernandez have struggled for consistency.
Meanwhile, Chelsea hero Michael Essien thinks the west London side should keep Luiz despite his row with Conte.
“He has a strong leadership in him and that’s good for the team. It is good to have him in the dressing room,” Essien told Goal.
“It is very funny, he jokes around but he’s serious when he’s playing.
“It is sad how people forget last season so soon. It is what it is, this happens in football.
“He is still one of the best in my eyes. He’s out injured but I think he will come back strong and play for Chelsea.
“Sell him? I am not sure. He is one of the leaders at the moment.
“When you want to do something you need the leaders, you need that experience so hopefully he will still be around for a long time.
“When he was with me he was a crazy guy but in a good way. You need that as a player. He is not that old, 30 years old, he’s still young to me.”
