Arsenal are reportedly considering a renewed effort to sign Aston Villa midfielder Douglas Luiz in the upcoming summer transfer market.
Luiz, who tallied seven goals and six assists in all competitions last season, has registered nine Premier League goals and five assists this term, along with four assists in European competition.
The Villains signed Luiz from Manchester City at the start of the 2019-20 Premier League season for a fee of around £15m.
Arsenal to reignite Douglas Luiz interest
Despite having previously seen several bids for the 25-year-old midfielder rejected in recent times, the Gunners are once again planning to try and lure the Brazilian away from Villa Park this summer, according to Football Insider.
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The report adds that Arteta's side may face competition for Luiz's signature from Barcelona, who are also keeping an eye on the highly-rated midfielder.
However, it remains to be seen what the Catalan giants will do in the transfer market this summer with the future of Xavi and the potential appointment of a new manager likely to be key factors influencing decisions regarding player acquisitions and departures at the Nou Camp.
In addition, Blaugrana's recent financial issues could restrict them from signing the Brazilian midfielder, who is currently understood to be valued in the region of £100m.
Luiz to partner Declan Rice in Gunners midfield
Mikel Arteta is expected to part ways with the 31-year-old Egyptian Mohamed Elneny in the coming months, which would create room in the squad for another significant signing, potentially to play alongside Declan Rice in the Gunners engine room.
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In addition, Jorginho and Thomas Partey's futures at the Emirates Stadium are uncertain, with their contracts set to expire in 2024 and 2025, respectively.
Luiz agreed a new long-term deal with Unai Emery's side back in 2022, which runs until the summer of 2026.
The Villains are enjoying one of their best-ever seasons in the top flight, currently in fourth place in the Premier League with 63 points after 33 games, three points ahead of fifth-placed Tottenham Hotspur.
They are also still in the running for their first Europa Conference League title, leading Lille 2-1 heading into the second-leg quarter-final tie on Thursday evening at Stade Pierre-Mauroy.
Devesh Jaganath
