The recent injuries to Thomas Partey and Mohamed Elneny has sparked a crisis at Arsenal, who have enjoyed a perfect start to the Premier League campaign, as Mikel Arteta's side suddenly find themselves short on midfielders just before the transfer window shuts close.
The Gunners will be without the Ghanaian ace for a few weeks, which was made worse when the aforementioned Egyptian picked up his own—and more serious—injury in the 2-1 victory over Fulham, leaving the inexperienced Sambi Lokonga as the only defensive midfielder in the squad.
As a result, a change in transfer plans was needed as the north London giants have abandoned their search for a winger in favor of a midfielder. And according to the latest rumors, the Premier League leaders have found their ideal candidate.
That player is none other than Douglas Luiz, the man who came on in Tuesday's showdown between Arsenal and Aston Villa to score past Aaron Ramsdale from a corner kick. The Brazilian is in the final year of his contract, meaning Gerrard's side are in danger of losing him for free next summer, hence this move.
According to the Sun, Arsenal are preparing to bid as high as £25M ($29M) for the 24-year-old after seeing their initial bid of £20M rejected, while the Daily Mail claim that their now offer will be worth £25M ($26.5M). Despite his contractual situation, Aston Villa reportedly do not intend to sell the South American, who has garnered interest from Liverpool and Atletico Madrid as well.
Arsenal working on second offer for Douglas Luiz after original £20m bid was turned down by Aston Villa. Sources indicate it will be worth in the region of £23m. Villa determined to keep Luiz. @MailSport
— Sami Mokbel (@SamiMokbel81_DM) September 1, 2022
According to Fabrizio Romano, Luiz, who – just like Arteta – is a former Manchester City man, has agreed personal terms with the Gunners and is pushing the Villans to accept the offer from Edu and Co. It remains to be seen whether the Birmingham side truly intend to keep ahold of the Brazilian this season or whether they are simply attempting to get the highest possible fee.
The potential agreement between Douglas Luiz & Arsenal on personal terms would be on five year deal. It's ready on player side — but not yet between clubs. #AFC
— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) September 1, 2022
Aston Villa insist they don't want to sell Douglas but player pushing.
Palmeiras talent Danilo is also being linked with an Emirates Stadium move, and just like Douglas Luiz, he is another player that the Gunners have been monitoring for some time. However, this deal looks unlikely as his Brazilian employers neither desire nor are in a rush to sell.
Arsenal are currently top of the table after their 2-1 victory over Aston Villa, with Gabriel Jesus and Gabriel Martinelli getting on the scoresheet. A new midfielder would strengthen Mikel's side ahead of their weekend trip to Manchester United as the table toppers look to make it six wins out of six.
