Everton and United in Tug-of-War Over Juventus Midfielder Transfer | OneFootball

Douglas Luiz Attracts Premier League Attention as Juventus Consider Sale

Manchester United and Everton have both been credited with strong interest in Juventus midfielder Douglas Luiz, according to Football Insider, with sources confirming that a return to the Premier League could be on the cards for the Brazilian this summer.

While Luiz still has four years remaining on his current deal in Turin, his future appears far from settled. The 27-year-old has struggled for regular minutes since moving from Aston Villa last summer, starting just six games and accumulating only 877 minutes across all competitions.

Midfield Reinforcements Sought at Old Trafford

United’s intent to reshape their midfield under Ruben Amorim has become increasingly evident. “Man United have registered their interest in signing Juventus midfielder Douglas Luiz this summer,” Football Insider reported, indicating Amorim’s desire to bolster a department that underperformed last season.

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The Red Devils are reportedly ready to negotiate a loan-to-buy structure for Luiz, a deal Juventus may not favour but one that could appeal to both parties depending on the financial terms. With competition emerging from across the Premier League, including Leeds, Crystal Palace and Nottingham Forest, United’s structured approach and need for immediate reinforcements may give them the edge.

“Man United are willing to negotiate a loan-to-buy deal with the Italian club, placing them firmly ahead of Everton in the race to reach an agreement,” Football Insider added. This signals both strategic planning and financial caution from United, who have also shown interest in Wilfred Ndidi from Leicester, available due to a £9 million release clause.

Everton Monitoring Luiz Amid Financial Constraints

Everton’s interest in Luiz is firm but financially cautious. David Moyes’ side would prefer a loan move due to budget constraints. “Everton are also keen on the 27-year-old, who has four years remaining on his current contract but could leave Italy with a return to the Premier League a possibility,” Football Insider reported.

The Toffees, keen to avoid long-term risks, remain on standby as Juventus weigh up whether to sanction a loan or hold firm for a permanent transfer. The Italian side would clearly prefer a sale, but Luiz’s limited appearances last season may temper expectations of a high-value offer.

Luiz’s Premier League Pedigree Fuels Transfer Hopes

Prior to his move to Juventus, Luiz was a consistent performer at Aston Villa. That familiarity with the English game is key to his appeal. His agent is reportedly working hard to generate Premier League interest and, with his playing time limited in Serie A, a return may offer the fresh start he needs.

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“Since his move to Juventus from Aston Villa last summer, Luiz has started just six games and played just 877 minutes across all competitions,” Football Insider noted, underlining the midfielder’s need to rediscover regular football.

Nottingham Forest are among the clubs keeping close tabs. Former United chief scout Mick Brown told Football Insider that Forest have tracked Luiz’s progress and could step up their interest depending on Juventus’ stance.

Amorim’s Wider Rebuild and Targets

Luiz is just one component of Amorim’s broader plan at Old Trafford. United are also chasing Christopher Nkunku and Bryan Mbeumo, both linked to exits from Chelsea and Brentford respectively. Amorim’s desire to infuse creativity and balance into United’s squad reflects his intent to rebound from a disappointing debut season.

As Football Insider revealed, “Brown told Football Insider on 1 July that Man United are close to signing Mbeumo and remain in behind-the-scenes talks with Brentford about a final fee.” The pace of these negotiations may dictate whether a move for Luiz takes top priority.

Our View – EPL Index Analysis

For Manchester United, Douglas Luiz represents an astute, if somewhat cautious, addition. United’s midfield has lacked a steady presence since the decline of Casemiro’s influence, and Luiz’s Premier League experience could provide balance. The loan-to-buy option would offer financial flexibility, which makes sense given recent spending. Fans may view Luiz as a practical solution rather than a headline-grabber, but one that could prove effective under Amorim’s system.

For Everton supporters, the situation is more complex. The club’s long-term rebuild under David Moyes requires smart acquisitions rather than big names, and Luiz on loan would fit that model. However, with Juventus favouring a permanent sale, fans may be wary that another target will slip through due to financial restrictions. Given their midfield needs, missing out on Luiz could feel like another frustrating window.

Supporters of clubs like Forest or Palace will see Luiz as a potential coup. A proven Premier League midfielder with international credentials would undoubtedly lift expectations. However, if United accelerate their talks, it’s difficult to see anyone else matching their pulling power.