David Luiz's huge net worth continues to soar as he gears up for Chelsea reunion

Chelsea fans will be treated with the return of David Luiz tonight who continues to play in the Champions League at 38 years of age

Despite nearing 40 years old, David Luiz continues to be a crucial player for a Champions League club.

The former Brazil international has had a football career spanning 20 years and five countries, with his latest journey taking him to Cyprus with Pafos, a Cypriot First Division team.

The defender joined the club last August on a two-year contract after a brief spell with Fortaleza in Brazil. Having spent the previous four years in his home country, Luiz's return to Europe was unexpected for many, particularly given his age of 38.

In addition to his decision to return to Europe, Luiz is set for a reunion as Pafos are scheduled to face Chelsea at Stamford Bridge in the Champions League on Wednesday. The Brazilian enjoyed six years with the west London club over two periods, becoming a fan favourite despite his eventual transfer to rivals Arsenal in 2019.

In his debut season at Pafos, Luiz has made 20 appearances, including all six of their European matches, and has started and played every minute of their last four games in the competition.

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After being suspended for Pafos' league match against Omonia Aradippou last week, he returned to action on Saturday, playing 12 minutes in a 2-0 defeat to Olympiakos Nicosia.

However, an on-pitch reunion against the Blues could be in jeopardy, with reports in the Cypriot press suggesting he'll need to undergo a late fitness test due to injury concerns.

Whilst Luiz may not be earning the same wages he commanded at clubs like Chelsea, Paris Saint-Germain and Arsenal, his reported net worth of £14.8million ($20m) indicates he remains financially secure.

Alongside his considerable wealth, Luiz has enjoyed remarkable success throughout his career, with his trophy cabinet including the Champions League, two Europa League titles and the Premier League crown.

In what will mark his first return to the Bridge since January 2020, Luiz previously discussed his decision to join Pafos. Speaking to BBC Sport last September, he said: "I was in talks with Pafos and I said it's the right moment to go to a new challenge.

"I'm very happy to be here, nobody expected us to be in the Champions League this season and everything has happened because of the work [we've done]. The club has been working hard for many many years, the coach, staff and all the players are doing amazing every single day."

Luiz played a crucial role in Chelsea's Champions League victory in 2012, and he disclosed the condition of his fitness ahead of the final against Bayern Munich. He added: "For me it was a special night, not just because of the title but how it was because nobody expected us to be in that final.

"I think that year everybody was expecting it to be Barcelona vs Real Madrid and we beat Barcelona and Bayern beat Madrid and on the day of the final, I was supposed to not play because of my hamstring injury.

"Not many people know about that, I went to the pitch, I played 120 minutes and scored a penalty with a hamstring that still today has a big scar, it's a mark that I'll never forget."