Was the surprise re-capture of David Luiz really such a smart move from Chelsea?

Let’s face it – although many millions of pounds have indeed been spent upon the services of David Luiz throughout his recent stint among the upper echelons of the European game – the 29-year-old Brazilian international has certainly seen his overall reputation halted somewhat in recent seasons.

 

The now former PSG centre-back often portrays himself as a strong and captivating character both on and off the pitch for sure, but can his overall defensive capabilities be relied upon down at Stamford Bridge ahead of what looks to be a crucial season for the Blues? We shall have to wait and see…

 

Although the man himself seemingly remains in upbeat spirits ahead of his second spell with the Blues…

 

David Luiz: "It's time to win the Premier League! I hope it will be this year. I am working hard for that and this is our goal this season."

— Chelsea HQ (@Chelsea_HQ) 7 September 2016

 

…some Premier League onlookers have been left somewhat surprised by Chelsea’s recent decision to bring David Luiz soundly back among the English top-flight…

 

Signing #DavidLuiz for defensive cover is like curing a headache using dynamite. Baffling signing. He was poor then, he's worse now.

— Darragh Mowlds (@DarraghMowlds) 31 August 2016

 

Antonio Conte’s judgement has even been criticised in the wake of the 29-year-old’s second spell down in West London…

 

David Luiz the most un-Conte defender possible. Will flop massively

— Q. (@FutbolMesut) 2 September 2016

 

…as well as that of the Stamford Bridge hierarchy who financed his shock re-capture in the first place…

 

Chelsea could line up with a back four of calamity-filled Ivanovic and David Luiz, a 35-year-old, and a Bolton flop. Sound business, right?

— 90min (@90min_Football) 31 August 2016

 

There are nonetheless those who are willing to welcome the Brazilian international back with open arms this campaign…

 

Love the fact @DavidLuiz_4 pushed for the move! Shows how much he loves our club! So so happy he's back..we've missed you? #Chelsea #Geezer

— Sarah_cfc♥ (@Sarah_091711) 31 August 2016

 

…even if his relatively recent departure from their club must still receive its due consideration within the grand scheme of things…

 

Chelsea fans haven't been this happy about David Luiz since they sold David Luiz

— Kene (@DeadlyAlli) 31 August 2016

 

But whilst Chelsea fans admittedly have every reason to love David Luiz as something of a modern cult character at their club…

 

Happy to see @DavidLuiz_4 back. Obviously still has passion for the club. Makes the odd mistake, but now will have Kanté in front of him.

— Dean Clay (@deanclay) 31 August 2016

 

…his overall ability to do the business under Conte this term still seems a little suspect in the cold light of day. Chelsea could therefore begin to regret this recent move sooner, rather than later…

 

Forget Joe Hart to Torino or Nasri to Sevilla… David Luiz to Chelsea is by a country mile the most shocking transfer this window.

— Lewis Stamford (@TheStamfordShow) 31 August 2016