It looks like Chelsea are now set to make their first big-name signing of the winter transfer window. Most had expected that to be Jeremy Jacquet, but those negotiations have proven to be complicated as Rennes' valuation of the centre-back seems to be quite a bit higher than what the Blues are willing to pay at this point in time.
Instead, it looks like Chelsea are set to strengthen their midfield before their defence. And Douglas Luiz is the man who will be arriving with that aim in mind.
As reported by Jorge Nicola, Luiz will play on loan at Chelsea until mid-year. People close to the midfielder guarantee that the deal is sealed.
If the information proves to be accurate than Chelsea have signed an experienced and Premier League-proven player, something that the fans have been calling out for for quite some time now. That being said, is he the right man for the job?
Report: Chelsea have agreed deal to sign Douglas Luiz
Luiz has only made five starts in the Premier League since arriving on loan at Nottingham Forest. Of course, injury problems have had a lot to do with that. The Brazilian international has spent a couple spells on the sidelines already this season.
The general theory is that Chelsea are looking to sign Luiz as a replacement for Romeo Lavia, who just can't seem to put his injury problems behind him. The Belgian has barely featured since joining the club in the summer of 2023, and the Blues might already be moving on.
But is it the right idea to bring in someone like Luiz to replace Lavia? The Brazilian himself has plenty of fitness issues of his own. Anyways, a short-term loan deal would not be the end of the world, but Chelsea cannot entertain including any kind of obligation to buy as part of the deal.