Jermaine Jenas feels that David Luiz leaving Arsenal could help Mikel Arteta start his Gunners' rebuild this summer.
Luiz's Arsenal career is set to reach its conclusion at the end of next month, with reports claiming that he has informed the club of his decision to leave.
The 34-year-old arrived at the Emirates Stadium from London rivals Chelsea in the summer of 2019, signing a one-year deal that had the option of being extended by a further 12 months.
Despite the defender's mixed debut season, Arsenal manager Arteta triggered the option to keep Luiz for another campaign, with the Gunners defender making 30 appearances this season.
However, the Brazilian's two-year spell in north London is set to come to an end when his contract officially expires on June 30, 2021, which former Tottenham midfielder Jenas reckons will impact Arteta's summer transfer plans.
But Jenas has praised the Brazilian defender and the contribution he has made this season at Arsenal, in what has been a disappointing campaign for the Gunners, with the north London club facing the prospect of no European football for the first time in 25 years.
"Arsenal need a rebuild this summer and I would imagine David Luiz is one of the higher earners at that football club," he said, speaking on BBC Radio 5 Live.
"So I think it is a smart move from them to free up some cash and maybe go and try and get a younger player in and start that rebuild
"I don't think it is massive news, I don't think Arsenal fans will be kicking down doors that David Luiz is leaving, there was surprise when he signed that one year contract extension.
"But to be fair to him, he's not been poor, by all accounts I think he has been trying to get the attitude right in the dressing room, but his body has perhaps let him down and he has had injuries this season."
