• Premier League

Chelsea have third bid for David Luiz rejected

ESPNsoccernet staff
January 19, 2011
David Luiz is one of the most sought-after defenders in Europe © PA Photos
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Benfica have turned down a third bid from Chelsea for centre-back David Luiz and are holding out for the full £25 million asking price.

Blues boss Carlo Ancelotti has seen his side's season fall apart due to major absences in his defence this season, with John Terry and Alex both sidelined at different stages of the campaign.

Chelsea have made Luiz their priority target, but the club are also looking at Danish star Simon Kjaer as a back-up if they cannot persuade the Brazilian to move, after a third bid was rebuffed by Benfica.

A source close to the transfer negotiations told ESPNsoccernet: "Chelsea's offer is shy of €25 million and Benfica are asking £25 million.

"Chelsea have put in some good bids, but they are not there yet. But they are not far away. Chelsea very much want the player, he is by far their first choice, but they are not there yet.

"The truth is that Benfica don't want to sell but they cannot hold onto the player, who wants to go to Chelsea, but Chelsea's offers have all been rejected, and that has happened to the latest offer as well. But the two clubs are closer - it just needs something to unlock the key to a deal being done."

© ESPN Sports Media Ltd.
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