Chelsea Transfer News: Rafael Benitez Wants David Luiz At Napoli?

Express. The one-time interim manager at Stamford Bridge quickly found himself back in employment at the Italian club following his departure from West London, and has now targeted his former player to help shore up his new side's defence. The Brazil international is valued by the Blues at £30 million however, and he has also been linked with a move to Spanish giants Barcelona. Napoli are understood to have told Benitez there is no way they can afford to match that valuation unless they first sell star player Edinson Cavani, whom they rate at £52 million. But the Brazilian's future is apparently in doubt at Stamford Bridge, with reports suggesting potential incoming manager Jose Mourinho is uncertain on his position within the team. Luiz played in midfield during the latter stages of Benitez' reign at the club, and it's unclear how Mourinho would factor him into his plans. Such uncertainty could help pave the way for the 26-year old's departure, just two years after moving from Portuguese side Benfica, whom the Blues defeated in the final of this season's Europa League. Barcelona would also be interested in his services should he be made available this summer.

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Joseph is an accredited football journalist and has interviewed nearly all of the current 20 Barclay's Premier League managers. He is also a correspondent for Bleacher Report and has written for Caught Offside and Give Me Football.