David Luiz thanks Chelsea for "great partnership"

Chelsea defender David Luiz has all but confirmed that he is close to sealing a £40m transfer to Paris Saint-Germain by thanking the Premier League side for a "great partnership".

The Blues confirmed last night that they had agreed a fee with the Ligue 1 champions, and while the move is yet to be officially completed, Luiz has spoken of his desire to make the move to France.

The 27-year-old told Globo Esporte: "Thank you Chelsea for three-and-a-half years of a great partnership. I gained friends, matches and titles that will always live on in my memory. 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!"

Luiz will depart Chelsea having scored 12 goals in 143 appearances.