Aston Villa midfielder Douglas Luiz was disappointed to have missed out on the opportunity to join Arsenal.
As reported by The Athletic, Douglas Luiz was “hurt” after being denied the opportunity to join Arsenal in the summer of 2022, when the Gunners made four separate bids for his services.
Aston Villa were determined to hold on to Luiz and got their wish. Unai Emery will be delighted that the Midlands outfit held firm, as having gotten over his sadness over the collapse of his switch to the Emirates Stadium, the Brazilian has kicked on again and is a talismanic figure at Villa Park.
According to transfer journalist Dean Jones, speaking to GiveMeSport, Arsenal still hold an interest in signing Luiz. However, the Villans remain as focused on retaining his services as ever and will demand a fee of at least £70 million in exchange for the 25-year-old.
One advantage Arsenal may have were they to go back in for Luiz is that the player clearly has some interest in joining the north London club. If the player were to push for the move himself, Villa may be forced to compromise on their asking price to some extent.
Former Villa boss Steven Gerrard has also previously discussed Luiz’s desire to join Arsenal.
Why Douglas Luiz would be a good fit at Arsenal
Luiz would be a smart signing for Arsenal to make. Mikel Arteta would be wise to bolster his midfield contingent, with the likes of Thomas Partey, Jorginho, and Mohamed Elneny all coming towards the end of their playing careers.
Luiz has the perfect blend of technical excellence and tenacious physicality to have an impact at both ends of the pitch.
He would also fit in well at Arsenal, where there is a strong Brazilian presence. Former Brazil international and current sporting director Edu would be involved in bringing him to the club, and the likes of Gabriel Magalhaes, Gabriel Martinelli, Gabriel Jesus, and Marquinhos – all compatriots of Luiz – are on the books at Arsenal.
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