Douglas Luiz is set to leave Juventus this summer, and his dream is a transfer to Manchester United, according to reports in Italy. The former Aston Villa midfielder has failed to convince Luciano Spalletti of his abilities.
Luiz's uncertain future
Luiz was linked to Old Trafford last season as the club sought midfield reinforcements, but ultimately moved on loan to Nottingham Forest and then to Villa during the 2025/26 campaign. Unai Emery's side chose not to take up the option to re-sign Luiz permanently, despite the Brazilian featuring in their Europa League final win.
With the prospect of losing money on Luiz, whom they signed for £42.35m, Juventus are considering a loan with an obligation to buy to free up space for new signings. Luiz is said to be open to staying in Turin but wants a guarantee of playing time, which appears unlikely.
Premier League interest
The clubs interested in Luiz have been described as the Premier League's 'second tier'. United have been linked in the past and are still searching for additional midfield reinforcement following the arrival of Andrey Santos and Luiz's former teammate, Youri Tielemans.
Michael Carrick's side wanted to ensure strength in depth in the centre of the pitch and have been linked to Roma's Manu Kone and Bournemouth star Alex Scott. The Cherries have been firm in suggesting their star is not for sale this summer.
Agent's role and potential swap deal
The figure negotiating Luiz's future is also playing a crucial role for United this summer, however. Kia Joorabchian is in search of the correct club for Joshua Zirkzee, with Juventus among the chief candidates, alongside Como.
Juve technical director Frederic Massara chased the forward while he was at Roma and, according to Gazzetta dello Sport, wants to take advantage of his 'good ties' with United to rekindle his interest. Like Juventus with Luiz, United are claimed to be open to a loan deal that includes an obligation to buy Zirkzee. The Dutchman is valued at up to £34m.
United and Juventus are reportedly in negotiations after Joorabchian gave his approval to Juventus officials. It's not a far stretch that Luiz's name could be brought up in discussions.
Luiz's name has cropped up in swap-deal speculation before, as United looked to offload Jadon Sancho last summer. The former Borussia Dortmund star's contract at Old Trafford expired at the start of the summer, having also spent time on loan at Aston Villa.
