Arsenal Target Douglas Luiz Signs New Contract With Aston Villa

Arsenal’s quest to sign Aston Villa defensive midfielder, Douglas Luiz has been dealt a major blow as the Brazillian has penned a new long-term contract with the Midlands outfit.

Infoexpert24 understands that the 24-year-old was set to become a free agent at the end of the season, leading several clubs to believe they could land the midfielder a cut-price deal in January.

Arsenal was one of the clubs closely monitoring his situation, with Mikel Arteta briefly working with him during his time at Manchester City.

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A huge admirer of the Brazilian, the Gunners gaffer was desperate to secure his services in the previous summer transfer window.

Just a day after Luiz scored against the Gunners’ in Villa’s 2-1 defeat at the Emirates Stadium, Arsenal had three bids rejected for the player on deadline day.

Villans gaffer Steven Gerrard subsequently stated he hoped his head hadn’t been turned by Arsenal’s interest.

And Luiz has shown he only has eyes for Villa after agreeing to extend his stay with the Midlands outfit.

A Villa statement read: “Aston Villa is delighted to announce that Douglas Luiz has signed a new long-term contract with the club.

“The 24-year-old midfielder joined Villa in the summer of 2019 and has gone on to rack up over a century of appearances in claret and blue.”

Speaking of his delight at his new deal, Luiz said: “I’m so happy.

“I’m so happy in this club and I love this club. I love the people here, the staff and the players.

“I’m so comfortable here and I’m so happy.

“I love this club. This club opened the door for me when I came to England to play in the Premier League.

“I’m so happy because I’m staying here and my choice is here.”

Luiz has featured in nine games in all competitions for Villa this season, scoring twice – both of which have come direct from corners.