Mikel Arteta wants Arsenal to sign ex-Manchester City midfielder lauded by Paul Merson - Reports

Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta reportedly wants to sign Aston Villa star Douglas Luiz. The Spaniard is keen on adding a midfielder and the Gunner are plotting a January move for the Brazilian.

As per a report in 90min, Aston Villa are bracing themselves for a bid from Arsenal as Luiz is back on the London club's radar. Arteta's side made a move for the Brazilian star in the summer of 2022 but could not get a deal over the line.

The report claims that Arteta has been a big fan of Luiz since working with the midfielder at Manchester City. They add that the Gunners board are ready to help the manager with all things possible to get their hands on the Premier League trophy.

Transfer expert Fabrizio Romano has also chipped in with news on Luiz and said:

"Arsenal always keep monitoring the same players they like and Aston Villa midfielder Douglas Luiz remains one of them."

"He's always been appreciated. Of course, we know that Arsenal had bids rejected for Luiz in September 2022, and he later went on to sign a new contract at Villa Park, which runs until 2026. He's now a key player for Villa so the deal would not be an easy one, but many clubs appreciate him."

Luiz, who joined Aston Villa in 2019, has a contract until 2026 at Villa Park. The 25-year-old has not made a decision on his future, but a move to the Emirates could tempt the midfielder to leave Unai Emery's side.

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Pundits heap praise on Arsenal target after Aston Villa's win over West Ham United

Paul Merson was quick to heap praise on Douglas Luiz after he scored twice against West Ham United in Villa's 4-1 win on October 22. The Arsenal legend labeled the Brazilian as one of the most underrated players in the league and posted on X (formerly Twitter):

"Douglas Luiz got to be one of the most underrated players in the league."

Alan Shearer was also full of praise for the Brazilian star and added that he has been laying the foundation for Aston Villa's success. He said in his Premier League Team of the Week article:

"Aston Villa keep going from strength to strength under Emery, and one player who has typified their incredible start to the season is Douglas Luiz."

"The Brazilian midfielder produced another outstanding display in midfield against West Ham United on Sunday as his brace helped Villa to an impressive 4-1 win. Two goals in a dominant display. He really led his team well. He's been laying the foundations for Villa's success this season."

Arsenal signed Jorginho in January this year with his time at Chelsea coming to an end but his contract expires next summer. The Gunners are now eyeing another star as Thomas Partey has been injured often.