Report: Luiz's Arsenal future in doubt as club hesitates to trigger extension

David Luiz's future at Arsenal is uncertain amid reports the club has yet to trigger a contractual option for a second season in north London, according to ESPN UK's James Olley.

Luiz, 33, joined Arsenal last summer from rivals Chelsea in an £8-million move that was initially suspected to include terms for two seasons.

As it turns out, the deal was allegedly for one season with a club option for a second, meaning the Brazilian center-back could leave the Gunners on June 30 if his option isn't exercised.

The suspension of play due to the ongoing coronavirus pandemic has cast doubt on the upcoming summer transfer window.

Clubs will look to mitigate the consequences of revenue losses by slashing wages, something that might persuade Arsenal to let Luiz - who is reportedly on £120,000 per week - walk at the end of June.

Arsenal have experienced a recent economic decline due to the absence of Champions League football and a financial model that depends heavily on matchday revenues. The decline is set to continue as the league plans to return in empty stadiums.

With the Premier League aiming to resume play before the start of July, Luiz could leave before the season is completed unless an agreement between the two parties is established.

Arsenal boss Mikel Arteta is reportedly keen to keep Luiz in the fold despite a wealth of center-back options in the first-team. Luiz was one of several players to experience an uptick in form following the Spanish tactician's appointment in December.

The club also has prodigious Frenchman William Saliba arriving in the summer from Saint-Etienne, and could sign Flamengo loanee Pablo Mari to a permanent deal following his temporary move to the Emirates Stadium in January.