Aston Villa could face a big transfer decision over the future of Douglas Luiz this summer, with both AC Milan and Roma reportedly interested in the Brazilian.
Luiz, 24, has been a key figure in the Villa side for some time now, making 111 appearances for the club in total across all competitions, scoring five goals and providing eight assists.
READ MORE: Why Morgan Sanson’s time at Aston Villa shouldn’t end this summer
Having predominantly been played in a more unnatural defensive midfield role, the Brazilian international perhaps hasn’t showcased his full potential as of yet, as while he boasts top technical and passing ability, his defensive weaknesses have left question marks.
That in turn led to Villa signing Boubacar Kamara earlier this summer to provide a real defensive presence in that No.6 role in front of the backline, and so with only 12 months remaining on Luiz’s contract in mind too, doubts have been raised over his future at Villa Park.
According to Corriere dello Sport, Roma are continuing to follow Luiz’s situation this summer, but it’s reported that they have been put off by Villa’s touted €35m valuation of the midfielder.
Meanwhile, it’s suggested that they’re not the only Serie A side interested in Luiz, as Tuttomercatoweb note that Milan are giving serious consideration to a move for him and a meeting was held on Thursday afternoon between his agent and club officials to discuss the financial terms of a possible deal.
It’s added that Luiz is seriously considering an exit from Villa this summer, but depending on how much he’s valued at and whether or not any interested parties can afford that fee is a possible stumbling block that may scupper a move from materialising.
Should Villa sell or push to agree new terms with Douglas Luiz?
With Kamara in as the defensive midfielder in the Villa XI, coupled with the competition for places ahead of him with John McGinn, Jacob Ramsey, Morgan Sanson, Marvelous Nakamba, Carney Chukwuemeka and Tim Iroegbunam all battling for places too barring any other exits, it’s a tough decision for both parties.
Perhaps his contract situation will have a major bearing on the outcome too, as if Luiz isn’t prepared to sign a new deal to extend his stay at Villa, cashing in on him now as opposed to losing him for nothing next summer is the smart move from a Villa perspective.
Ongoing speculation over Douglas Luiz's future at Villa. Just 12 months remaining on current contract. Got Kamara as a proper No.6 now, keep Luiz & play him in a more advanced role and so prioritise agreeing new terms, or time to sell?#avfc #UTV pic.twitter.com/jjOz1rLLmC
— Talk Villa (@thetalkvilla) June 23, 2022