Fabrizio Romano’s update on the future of exit-linked Douglas Luiz will excite Aston Villa fans.
In his Daily Briefing on Friday (24 November), the Italian journalist reported that the Brazilian international has emerged as Arsenal’s top target to strengthen their midfield ahead of the January transfer window.
However, he added that the Gunners will find it “difficult” to agree a deal for the 25-year-old midfielder as Villa look to retain one of their prize assets.
The increased interest in Luiz follows concern at the Emirates regarding Thomas Partey, who has undergone surgery to correct a “significant” thigh problem that has kept him out of action since August.
This season, the Villans man has been in scintillating form, scoring six goals and laying on two assists in 19 appearances to help his side climb to fifth in the Premier League table.
Alan Hutton, speaking exclusively to Villa News on 3 November, stated that the midfielder is worth more than £50 million after his recent exploits at Villa Park.
“He’s at a great age, he’s been outstanding, and he can probably play for most Premier League teams except Manchester City, who are arguably the strongest team,” he added. I believe he can play with anyone, and clearly, people are sniffing around.
“He checks all the boxes, so I believe we’re talking record fees here.” Obviously, Jack Grealish is the record sale, and he won’t break it, but if he leaves, we’re talking record numbers for a midfielder. Hopefully not, because he’s an important part of Villa’s future plans. It would have to be a significant sum to get him out.”
Luiz has started all 12 Premier League games for Villa this season, as they sit just three points behind league leaders Manchester City ahead of the match against Tottenham on Sunday (26 November).
He is clearly looking to be more involved offensively this season after averaging 1.7 shots per game compared to 0.9 last year, with his goal conversion rate increasing from 18% to 25% [SofaScore].
In the first few months of the season, the Brazilian has averaged a SofaScore rating of 7.49, with 76.6 touches per outing as he looks to get on the ball and make things happen.
He’s made 1.2 key passes and has an 88% pass success rate, while his impressive 92% total from balls played in his own half shows that he doesn’t give up too much in potentially dangerous areas.
The midfielder is averaging 0.4 interceptions and 2.3 tackles per game, and he has won the ball back six times.
He’s also been successful with 62% of his dribbles as he looks to carry the ball up the pitch, and he’s won 60% of the duels he’s been involved in to demonstrate that he’s more than just a creative force in the side.
Luiz has been reinvented since Unai Emery arrived at Villa Park, and his importance to the team has made it impossible for them to let him go.
The fact that a move to Arsenal appears to be off the table is extremely encouraging for the club, as the last thing they need is an important player leaving in January to potentially derail what could be a very special season for them.
