Arsenal 'to prioritise Douglas Luiz signing next year'

Arsenal are reportedly set to make Aston Villa midfielder Douglas Luiz their top target for 2024.

The Gunners are keen to sign a new midfielder in the new year, with uncertainty surrounding the futures of Thomas Partey and Jorginho.

Partey, who is currently sidelined through injury, has been linked with a move away in January, while Jorginho's contract expires at the end of the summer.

With Arsenal targeting reinforcements in the middle of the park, they continue to show interest in Aston Villa's Luiz, who they previously failed to sign in 2022.

According to Football Insider, Mikel Arteta's side have made signing the Brazil international a priority for the new year.

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While the Gunners have made Luiz a top target, a deal will be difficult to pull off, especially in next month's transfer window.

Aston Villa are reluctant to sanction a sale during the middle of the season, with the Villans currently sitting in the top four of the Premier League table.

Luiz has been a key part of Aston Villa's success this season, registering six goals and four assists in 25 competitive appearances prior to Sunday's clash with Brentford.

With Aston Villa set to compete in the Europa Conference League knockout rounds in the new year, they are unlikely to let one of their key players depart when the transfer window opens in January.

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If Arsenal are unable to strike a deal in the winter, they could renew their interest at the end of the current season.

However, they may face competition from Luiz's former club Manchester City, who are on the lookout for a new midfielder, with Kalvin Phillips expected to depart next month in a bid to secure regular game time.

The Aston Villa midfielder recently addressed the speculation, admitting that he welcomed the "stories" while also expressing his "love" for his current employers.

Luiz would likely command a significant transfer fee, with his Aston Villa contract set to run until the summer of 2026.