Arsenal lining up new contract for experienced defender

Arsenal are planning to renew the contract of defender David Luiz for another season, Brazilian journalist Jorge Nicola claims.

The Brazilian has struggled for game time over the past month due to injuries, but he is still highly regarded by the backroom staff.

His current contract with the club expires in June, and it has been reported that Benfica and Fenerbahce have been in touch with him.

However, it appears that he could remain with the Gunners, who are prepared to extend his stay for another 12 months.

Luiz was recently out with a knee injury. He made his comeback against Newcastle United last weekend, but suffered a muscular problem.

The 34-year-old has made a quick recovery, and could feature for the Gunners against West Bromwich Albion on Sunday.

The Gunners were eliminated from the Europa League at the semi-final stage by Villarreal last night. They lost 2-1 on aggregate.

They are five points behind a European place in the league with four games left. They could miss out on European football for the first time in 25 years.