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Aston Villa are reportedly exploring a sensational mid-season reunion with former midfield general Douglas Luiz. According to reports from Fabrizio Romano and other sources this January, the Brazilian international is being considered for a loan move to bolster Unai Emery’s squad for the remainder of the 2025/26 campaign.
​Luiz, who became a fan favorite during his five-year stay at Villa Park, moved to Juventus in 2024. After a difficult spell in Italy, he returned to the Premier League last summer on a season-long loan with Nottingham Forest. However, his time at the City Ground has been hampered by injuries and a lack of consistent minutes under manager Sean Dyche, leading to suggestions that his current loan could be terminated to facilitate a move elsewhere.
​Why Now?
​The urgency for Villa stems from a burgeoning injury crisis in the heart of their midfield.
- ​Boubacar Kamara: Ruled out for the rest of the season with a knee injury.
- ​John McGinn: Currently sidelined, leaving Emery short on experienced options.
​With Villa currently competing at the top end of the Premier League table and still active in European competition, a move for Luiz makes tactical sense. He knows the system, the manager, and the league, theoretically requiring zero adaptation time.
​However, Villa aren’t alone in their pursuit. Chelsea are also reportedly monitoring the situation, viewing the 27-year-old as a viable option to solve their own depth issues.
Nafisa
Mustapha Sheidu