Jamie Carragher says it is no surprise that Arsenal are stalling on renewing David Luiz's contract.
The 33-year-old joined from Chelsea last summer and, after a difficult start to life with the Gunners, has become an integral part of Mikel Arteta's starting XI.
Despite it being widely believed that Luiz had penned a two-year deal upon arriving at the Emirates last summer, it emerged yesterday that there is an option on the second year of the deal and it is one Arsenal have yet to commit to amid the ongoing financial uncertainty presented by the coronavirus pandemic.
And, speaking to Sky Sports' The Football Show, former Liverpool defender Carragher argued that the Brazilian has been too inconsistent to warrant long stints at the club, including his two spells at Stamford Bridge.
"Well it has been entertaining, I think that is the first thing you would say," Carragher said.
"But maybe that is something that you don’t want to be described as a defender really.
"He is not going to change. No manager is now going to change David Luiz.
"He has had success in his career, he went for big money, he has got some great qualities.
"I think we remember him best being in the middle of a back three with [Antonio] Conte the year they won the title.
"I think that was the best position for him. I think Conte got the best out of him. We saw the real big strengths of David Luiz.
"We know about him technically, but he is a leader in some senses as well, he has got a huge frame, real physical presence as well.
"I think being in the middle of that back three with real defenders either side of him, in Gary Cahill and [Cesar] Azpilicueta, we really saw the best of him.
"That is how I remember him from the best of him. At times we know he can lack concentration and make poor decisions and that has cost certain teams.
"I think that is why he has always moved on in his career. A manager always feels he can get the best out of him, and he has some great qualities, but when you have got him at the club for a year or two, you think I can’t put up with the other stuff he brings and maybe that is what Arteta has seen.
"I do know Arsenal are really excited about the prospect coming in, Saliba, from Saint-Etienne, who I think is on loan, he is Arsenal’s player, who will be joining next season.
"But he is only 19 and you would think they still need a little bit more experience in that position but I do know the club are very excited about him coming in.
"To be honest, it is no surprise to me that they won’t be renewing Luiz’s contract."
