Chelsea have reportedly entered the race to sign Juventus midfielder Douglas Luiz, with Manchester City said to have also asked about the availability of the Brazilian.
City's nightmare season continued on Wednesday night when they were beaten 4-2 by French giants Paris Saint-Germain in the Champions League, a result that leaves them on the brink of elimination from Europe.
The Citizens are also fifth in the Premier League, 12 points behind league leaders Liverpool despite the Reds having played a game fewer.
Pep Guardiola is expected to spend significantly this transfer window in an attempt to rectify his side's poor showing this campaign, with forward Omar Marmoush likely to follow in the footsteps of defender Abdukodir Khusanov and sign for the club.
However, Fabrizio Romano claims that Chelsea could scupper City's plans to sign Juventus midfielder Douglas Luiz on loan, though the Italian side are reportedly not keen on sanctioning a temporary exit.
© Imago
Why Man City need Douglas Luiz
Guardiola's side were leading 2-0 against PSG, scoring twice in the second half before conceding four goals from the 56th minute onwards in what was an embarrassing collapse.
The absence of Rodri at the base of midfield has undoubtedly damaged City's ability to control games, but while the Spaniard's injury is clearly significant, it is surprising that the team are struggling to such an extent.
Luiz is an expert passer and is able to turn out of pressure with ease, something he demonstrated during his time in the Premier League with Aston Villa.
Though he is not a specialised defensive midfielder, he has considerable experience operating at the base of midfield and would also be comfortable in a double pivot.
© Imago
Why Chelsea need Douglas Luiz
Chelsea looked as if they would be able to challenge for the Premier League title, but their victory against Wolverhampton Wanderers on Monday was their first in six league games, drawing three and losing two in that period.
Moises Caicedo has been among the standout midfielders in the division this season, but he has had to play alongside a rotating cast, and it has arguably been to Chelsea's detriment.
Boss Enzo Maresca could benefit from signing Luiz and using him in a box-to-box role, giving him the freedom to operate in positions ahead of Caicedo to help unlock defences in the final third.
Luiz is unlikely to help solve all of Chelsea's defensive problems given there are huge question marks regarding the long-term future of many of their defenders, but the Brazilian could help the Blues prevent needless turnovers of possession, which in turn may prevent counter-attacks.
Lewis Nolan
