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Luiz is set to depart after just a year at the Emirates (Picture: Getty Images)

David Luiz set to leave Arsenal on a free transfer this summer

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David Luiz could leave Arsenal this summer with his contract set to expire at the end of the season, according to reports.

The 33-year-old was believed to have signed a two-year deal when he made the switch from Chelsea in August 2019, but according to Sky Sports, there was only ever an initial 12-month agreement in place.

Luiz has been one of Mikel Arteta’s most trusted defenders since the Spaniard’s arrival at the club in December.

The former Manchester City assistant and technical director Edu are both said to be keen on keeping the defender for longer, but no new contract extension has been agreed as of yet.

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Luiz has been one of Arteta’s most trusted defenders s (Picture: Getty Images)

The Gunners are reportedly willing to let go of centre-backs Rob Holding, Shkodran Mustafi and Sokratis in the next transfer window.

Arteta is planning a summer clear-out as he prepares for the arrival of £27 million signing William Saliba from Saint Etienne.

The 19-year-old was bought last year and immediately sent back to the French club on a season-long loan.

Arsenal chief Raul Sanllehi has warned staff not to expect any mega-money moves in the next transfer window due to the financial implications of the coronavirus crisis.

Free transfers and loan moves are said to be the order of business, with Chelsea winger Willian and Bournemouth’s Ryan Fraser potential targets.

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