Aston Villa midfielder Douglas Luiz is among Arsenal’s list of options as they look to strengthen their midfield this summer, according to Italian journalist Fabrizio Romano.

The Brazilian will have just one year left on his contract at Villa Park at the end of the season, and Romano claims the Gunners are considering making a move for the player:

“Arsenal need a midfielder, they wanted a midfielder in January. Also because Elneny will leave the club so they need a player in that position. Douglas Luiz is one to watch in the summer… Not only for Arsenal, they have an interest, but I’m not convinced he will extend his contract with Aston Villa, so he could be a big name on the market this summer. So keep an eye on Douglas Luiz, not only for Arsenal, but they have his name on the list.”

Luiz joined Villa from Manchester City for £15m in 2019, and Arsenal boss Mikel Arteta knows the midfielder well after working with him during his time at the Etihad Stadium.

It is, therefore, not a surprise that the club are interested in the 23-year-old. Whether he is the number one target, though, it remains to be seen.

The likes of Brighton’s Yves Bissouma, Wolves’ Ruben Neves, Lille’s Renato Sanches and RB Leipzig’s Tyler Adams have also been linked with the Gunners over the past year so there are alternatives to Luiz being looked at.