Douglas Luiz is close to joining Juventus in what is likely to be one of the most surprising transfers this summer. The Aston Villa midfielder is involved in talks with Weston McKennie and Samuel Illing-Junior going the other way, alongside €20 million being paid to Villa as part of the transfer, according to Fabrizio Romano.
The two clubs are in contact to iron out the details of the move before they can sign off on it. Personal terms have been agreed for all players, and new Juventus manager Thiago Motta has given his approval as well.
Juventus and Aston Villa to conduct player swap deal involving Douglas Luiz
🚨⚫️⚪️ Juventus manager Thiago Motta has given green light to Douglas Luiz swap deal.
— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) June 11, 2024
Juventus and Aston Villa are more than close to final agreement!
🟣🔵 Weston McKennie, Samuel Iling Jr. and €20m fee to #AVFC as revealed.
↪️ Personal terms for all players, now discussed. pic.twitter.com/vFqxtZggo8
It is quite surprising that Villa are letting go of one of their top players after qualifying for the Champions League this past season. The Brazilian has been a vital part of their midfield, and has orchestrated play brilliantly for Unai Emery’s side.
One of the main reasons behind the deal, however, is that Villa need to comply with the Premier League’s Profit and Sustainability Rules. Everton and Nottingham Forest were both docked points by the League this past season, owing to non-compliance with the rules.
Villa do not want to take the risk, and have been forced to sacrifice the Brazilian as a result. It now remains to be seen whether they will add more reinforcements to their squad, in spite of Weston McKennie joining them as part of the player swap deal.