Transfer News: Newcastle United closely monitoring Douglas Luiz

Newcastle United are reportedly closely monitoring Douglas Luiz’s situation at Aston Villa, with Arsenal also interested in the Brazilian.

According to The Athletic, Newcastle United hold an interest in Douglas Luiz, and he could become a target before the transfer window closes. The Brazilian midfielder has 18 months left on his Aston Villa contract and also courting interest from Arsenal, another club in a position to make an offer this month.

Newcastle United are stepping up their efforts to bring in quality players before the transfer window slams to a shut. The Magpies have signed a striker and a right-back while searching for a midfielder and a central defender.

Those areas are the priorities for Eddie Howe, who wants to strengthen the squad as much as he can before the deadline ahead of a relegation battle. The key for Newcastle would be to stay afloat in the Premier League and then strengthen significantly in the summer by bringing in stars into other areas of the pitch.

While they continue searching for a central defender, they have recently stepped up their hunt for a midfielder. In the last few hours, they have reportedly agreed on a deal with Lyon for Bruno Guimaraes and could be looking for another star to bolster the department.

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Another Brazilian in Douglas Luiz has emerged on their radar. The former Manchester City star is well versed in playing a defensive midfield role and an advanced role if needed. He has 18 months left on his deal, and Villa have given no indication over a possible extension. As he nears a danger zone in his contract, suitors could look to take advantage and lodge an offer before the transfer deadline.

As Newcastle close in on the capture of Guimaraes, Arsenal could get the upper hand if Luiz decides to call time on his Aston Villa stint. The Brazilian is certainly settled in the team and may even be open to remaining at the club for the foreseeable future.

However, if a club like Arsenal come knocking on the door, things could change dramatically. Mikel Arteta knows Luiz from his days as Manchester City’s assistant manager and is certainly interested in bringing the Brazilian to the Emirates.

The Gunners have been chasing his compatriot Arthur Melo, although a deal has proven complicated. Aston Villa have been chasing Juventus’s Rodrigo Bentancur rather seriously, and the player also seems open to the idea of signing for Steven Gerrard’s side. A possible move for the Uruguayan might help Luiz leave if a sizeable offer arrives this month.

Newcastle United have the power to financially outmuscle Arsenal or any other clubs for their targets. But it remains to be seen if Aston Villa are open to letting Luiz leave the club, in the January transfer window.