Aston Villa could open concrete talks with Douglas Luiz about a new deal, with Champions League qualification likely to play a huge role.
According to Football Insider, Aston Villa will look to offer Douglas Luiz a big-money contract once the season ends. The 25-year-old Arsenal target has been linked with an exit from the club, but Unai Emery’s side hopes to keep him, especially if they qualify for the Champions League.
Aston Villa to open Douglas Luiz contract talks
Aston Villa’s main priority should be a renewal of Douglas Luiz’s deal during the summer window. The Brazilian international has proved his worth and is one of the most important players under Unai Emery. He has been linked with a move away, with Arsenal considering a summer move for the midfielder.
The 25-year-old Arsenal target is in no rush to sign a new deal. He wants to see how things pan out between now and the end of the season. He will know the many clubs chasing his signature when the summer window opens; hence, he continues to keep his options open for now.
Aston Villa are hopeful of renewing his deal, which ends in the summer of 2026. Hence, there’s a rush to get things in order, as the next window might allow the club to cash in and give Luiz the opportunity to continue his career elsewhere with new challenges on board.
Apart from Arsenal, where manager Mikel Arteta admires the 25-year-old midfielder, Manchester City are also keen on re-signing their former star. Either club may have to shell out a large sum to get Aston Villa interested. The club is now planning on opening talks with the midfielder over a new big-money deal that could see him stay here for a long time to come, but there are conditions.
Champions League qualification key for Luiz’s stay
Luiz might sign a new deal should Aston Villa qualify for next season’s Champions League. Playing in the competition is considered vital by the 25-year-old Arsenal target, who dreams of participating there. The Gunners, Manchester City or even Barcelona are all about to take part in it next season, which Aston Villa are also hoping for.
Villa returned to winning ways and, incidentally, defeated Arsenal at the Emirates to return to the top four. Luiz missed the clash with a suspension. The midfielder might be open to continuing under Emery if they make it to the top-tier European competition. Failing to do so might result in the midfielder wanting a new challenge, especially with his current level of interest in the market.
