Aston Villa boss Unai Emery was dismissive when asked about transfer interest in Douglas Luiz, as the midfield ace continues to shine for us this season.
The 25-year-old took his tally to three assists along with six goals in 20 appearances across all competitions so far in this campaign in our 2-1 win over Tottenham on Sunday.
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That’s now 15 goal contributions from the Brazilian international in the Premier League in 2023, with Bruno Fernandes and James Maddison the only other midfielders with more.
Aside from the numbers, Luiz’s technical ability, composure, vision, passing range and defensive qualities all make him a fundamental figure in this Villa side, as he is pivotal in giving us control in games by pulling the strings in midfield alongside Boubacar Kamara.
In turn, Emery’s comments below don’t come as a surprise as he will value Luiz highly given what he provides for us, but that hasn’t stopped speculation in recent weeks over interest from elsewhere in the midfield ace.
“Douglas is playing very good and he improves a lot,” Emery told the media when questioned about the speculation, as per BirminghamLive. “His commitment is amazing. I am very happy with him and I want to keep him, of course.
“I think he’s happy with us, his commitment with his national team and his performances like today are amazing, fantastic. I want him.”
As per Fabrizio Romano earlier this month, it has been suggested that Arsenal will reignite their interest in Luiz in January after failing to sign him last year, but he added that given how highly regarded he is at Villa, it won’t be easy to prise him away.
Emery’s assessment of the situation echoes that, and with Villa challenging higher up the Premier League table, progressing in Europe and with Luiz back in the Brazil squad, it all builds confidence in our ability to keep him at the club for the foreseeable future.
He’s one of countless Villa players who have developed and improved under the Spaniard to take their game to the next level, and hopefully as we continue to progress and compete at a higher level, we’ll be able to continue to build around these influential figures rather than having to replace them.