Arsenal are reportedly planning to make a fresh attempt to sign Aston Villa midfielder Douglas Luiz during the upcoming summer transfer window.
Luiz, who scored seven goals and provided six assists across all competitions last season, has contributed nine goals and five assists in the Premier League this season, along with four assists in European competitions.
Aston Villa acquired Luiz from Manchester City at the beginning of the 2019-20 Premier League season for a fee of approximately £15 million.
Despite facing previous rejections for the 25-year-old midfielder, Arsenal are considering another bid to attract Luiz away from Villa Park this summer, according to reports from Football Insider.
The report suggests that Arsenal might face competition from Barcelona for Luiz’s signature, as the Spanish club is also monitoring the talented midfielder. However, Barcelona’s transfer activities could be influenced by managerial changes and financial constraints.
Furthermore, Barcelona’s recent financial difficulties might hinder their pursuit of Luiz, who is currently valued at around £100 million.
It is anticipated that Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta will part ways with 31-year-old midfielder Mohammed Elneny in the near future, potentially creating space for a significant signing like Luiz to partner with Declan Rice in Arsenal’s midfield.
Moreover, uncertainties surround the futures of Jorginho and Thomas Partey at the Emirates Stadium, as their contracts are set to expire in 2024 and 2025, respectively.
Luiz signed a new long-term contract with Arsenal under former manager Unai Emery in 2022, which extends until the summer of 2026.
Aston Villa is currently experiencing one of their best-ever seasons in the Premier League, sitting in fourth place with 63 points after 33 games, three points ahead of fifth-placed Tottenham Hotspur.
Additionally, Aston Villa remains in contention for their first-ever Conference League title, leading Lille 2-1 heading into the second-leg quarter-final tie at Stade Pierre-Mauroy on Thursday evening.
