Chelsea have reportedly decided to open contract talks with defender David Luiz.
The Brazil international has made just 64 appearances since returning to Stamford Bridge in August 2016, with the centre-back sitting out the majority of the last campaign.
However, the arrival of Maurizio Sarri has led to Luiz being restored to the starting lineup, and the 31-year-old has helped the Blues pick up 17 points from their first seven games in the Premier League this season.
According to the London Evening Standard, that has led to the Blues hierarchy being prepared to offer a new deal to Luiz, with the player having less than a year remaining on his existing terms.
Any new contract for Luiz could have ramifications for defensive teammate Gary Cahill, with Chelsea unlikely to be prepared to offer a fresh deal to two players in their thirties who play in the same position.
Darren Plant
