Manchester United have joined Everton and Fulham in the race to sign Juventus midfielder Douglas Luiz, according to journalist Matteo Moretto.
The Red Devils had a dismal 2024/25 season in the Premier League as they secured just 42 points from 38 outings.
United have placed focus on bolstering their attack this summer. They have already signed Matheus Cunha, and Bryan Mbeumo could arrive from Brentford soon.
The club are also exploring the transfer market for a central midfielder. It is now claimed that they have revived their pursuit of Luiz, who was formerly at Aston Villa.
The Red Devils made contact with the Brazilian star earlier this year and have now reignited their interest. Fulham and Everton are also in the mix for the 27-year-old.
Juventus have told Luiz that he is free to pursue a new challenge after failing to adapt to Italian football following his £42 million move from the Villans last summer.
Luiz would be an upgrade on Casemiro at United
The former Manchester City man had a brilliant final season with Villa. He registered 10 goals and 10 assists from 52 appearances for the Midlands outfit during the 2023/24 campaign.
Despite his standout season, Villa’s hands were forced. The need to comply with the Profit and Sustainability Rules meant that they had to cash in on their prized asset.
Luiz has since struggled to settle with the Bianconeri. He picked up a few injuries last season. When fit, he was unable to break into the starting plans with just 877 minutes from 27 games.
The midfielder would ‘gladly return‘ to the Premier League this summer, and he would be a superb acquisition for United, considering he can operate anywhere in midfield.
Luiz started his career as a number six and would suit the Red Devils in the role. He has a tireless work rate and likes to make recoveries. He does not shy away from engaging in tackles.
On top of this, he possesses a good distribution success rate. He has achieved a passing accuracy of nearly 90 per cent over the past few years, while also making goal contributions.
In our view, Luiz would be an upgrade on Casemiro due to his better mobility. Casemiro had a strong run in the Europa League last term, but has had troubles with the intensity of the Premier League.
The Brazilian can be world-class on his day, but has generally struggled against high-pressing teams. United could sign Luiz for free if a straight swap deal involving Jadon Sancho goes through.
Sancho has opened the door to join the Bianconeri and is prepared to accept a pay cut. With both players currently valued at £26m, an ‘equal exchange‘ could be on the cards this summer.
Luiz would be a quality competitor alongside Casemiro and Manuel Ugarte for the holding midfield role. Ugarte had an inconsistent debut season and needs to step up in his second year at the club.
Stats from Sofascore.com
