NORTH LONDON FIGHTS IN THE TRANSFER MARKET: Arsenal and Tottenham enters battle to signing £35M exceptional Premier League-proven South American player who was named Player of the Year last term
Arsenal are ready to battle it out with Tottenham Hotspur for Aston Villa’s midfielder this summer, according to The Sun.
The Gunners were keen on signing the Brazil international last summer, but the Villans rejected an offer worth £25 million before the transfer deadline.
Luiz went on to pen a new long-term deal with the West Midlands outfit. He had a top campaign, scoring seven goals and registering six assists in 40 games.
It is now reported that Spurs are lining up Luiz as a replacement for Pierre-Emile Hojbjerg, who has been the subject of interest from Atletico Madrid lately.
However, the Gunners are ready to hijack the potential deal. Mikel Arteta’s side are prepared to revive their pursuit of the ex-Manchester City youngster.
ARSENAL COULD RETURN FOR LUIZ
The Gunners are currently assessing the future of midfielder Thomas Partey.
Saudi Arabian giants Al Ahli are interested in signing the Ghanaian star. Daily Mail claim that the 30-year-old could consider the proposal on the table from them.
If Arsenal and Partey give the green light to the move, the hierarchy could eye a replacement. We won’t be surprised if Luiz re-emerges as an option for the club.
There has been much talk about Arsenal’s interest in Southampton’s Romeo Lavia, but manager Arteta may have his sights on signing someone more experienced.
Luiz, who can play as a defensive or central midfielder, would be a perfect fit after his redemption season at Villa. He was named the Supporter’s Player of The Year last term.
With Declan Rice set to play in the number six role, Luiz could provide quality back-up off the bench. He could start games where Arsenal require more defensive assurance.
Last season, he completed almost 87 per cent of his passes in the Premier League. He won an impressive two tackles and 4.4 duels per game for Unai Emery’s side.
Luiz should cost much more than last summer after signing a new long-term deal. He is currently valued at £35m by Transfermarkt, but Villa could value him higher.
