Gilberto Silva sends Arsenal and Edu clear transfer instruction to sign another Brazil star
Arsenal icon Gilberto Silva has expressed his desire to see the club sign Aston Villa midfielder Douglas Luiz. The Brazil international has been instrumental for Unai Emery’s side, helping Villa to climb into the top four.
It is not the first time that Arsenal have been touted with a move for the 25-year-old. Luiz emerged as a target for the Gunners during the summer transfer window in 2022, who reportedly saw three bids rejected for the Villa star.
The arrival of Declan Rice in midfield has strengthened Arsenal’s title hopes this season, recently forming a trio with Jorginho and club captain Martin Odegaard. However, Gilberto believes that his countryman could also improve Mikel Arteta’s squad.
Gabriel Magalhaes Arsenal injury explained as cryptic message sent after Brazil announcement
Kai Havertz dropped, Ben White worry — Arsenal surprises to come after 19-day break
“I think he’ll be expensive because he’s in good form. I am just happy to see another Brazilian doing a great job in the Premier League,” Gilberto told Caught Offside when asked about Douglas Luiz. “Any top club would want him right now, so why not Arsenal? I think it would be a great move for the club and for him as well.”
Gilberto is correct that Villa would demand a significant fee for Luiz. He signed a new deal shortly after Arsenal’s interest in 2022, with his contract believed to run until 2026. Transfermarkt values Luiz at €70m but the club could expect an even higher fee given his invaluable role in Villa’s recent success, including 20 goal contributions in 42 games this season.
While Luiz could improve Arsenal next season, Gilberto believes Arsenal already have enough to lift the Premier League trophy for the first time since his ‘invincible’
Read on football.london
