Unai Emery breaks silence on Douglas Luiz transfer with top four rivals ‘plotting raid on Aston Villa’ in January
UNAI EMERY has given an update on Douglas Luiz’s future with Aston Villa’s top-four rivals hoping to swoop for the midfielder.
The Brazilian has been on Arsenal’s radar for the January window but the Spaniard is desperate “to keep him”.
Luiz, 25, has been admired by Mikel Arteta‘s side for some time now but Villa rate him highly and want him to stay.
Boss Emery revealed his thoughts on his star midfielder after their 2-1 win against Tottenham on Sunday afternoon.
He said: “He’s playing very good. He’s improved a lot, 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.
“He’s coming on with his national team. And his performance like today was amazing. I want him.”
Luiz’s inviting free-kick provided an excellent assist for Pau Torres who scored Villa’s first goal in their victory in North London.
But just earlier this month Fabrizio Romano tweeted Arsenal were said to be keen on the former Man City player.
The Gunners are desperate to find a Thomas Partey replacement who is yet again out with an injury.
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Luiz is Arteta’s top pick but they know the fight for the midfielder will not be an easy one.
Arsenal previously put three bids in for Luiz last summer but they were all rejected as he signed a new contract at Villa Park.
The Gunners then re-ignited their interest this summer with Tottenham and Chelsea also monitoring his situation.
Manchester City are also keen to bring the Brazilian back to the Etihad Stadium during the January transfer window.