Aston Villa 'eye up' Premier League forgotten man as fresh Douglas Luiz links emerge

Aston Villa are preparing to take a well earned rest from Premier League action next week as the competition takes something of a break. Unai Emery's side take on Everton today as they look to underline their top four credentials and they'll be striving to hit the ground running when they return to action later this month.

Attentions may well turn to the transfer market over the coming days, then, with Villa mulling over the need add reinforcements to their squad. Here, BirminghamWorld take a look at some of the latest transfer gossip coming out of Villa Park.

Villa reignite Arsenal man interest

Aston Villa have once again been linked with a move to sign out of favour Arsenal man Emile Smith Rowe. Villa were rumoured to be keen on the England international 18 months ago and fresh reports of their interest have emerged with Talksport's Alex Crook suggesting the club are keeping tabs on the attacking midfielder.

Smith Rowe has struggled for opportunities at the Emirates Stadium this season, making just six league appearances under Mikel Arteta. He is still highly thought of in north London and memories of his 10-goal season in 2021-22 are still fresh.

But, game time has become a problem for the 23-year-old and he could be made available this month with Villa said to be monitoring his situation.

Arsenal targeting Villa star

Villa may well be keen on Smith Rowe, but they are unlikely to entertain the notion of a straight swap amid Arsenal's reported interest in Douglas Luiz. Luiz has been instrumental for Unai Emery's side this season, bagging six goals from centre midfield and seeing his market value rise to €60m, according to Transfermarkt.

His performances have not gone unnoticed, though, and it would seem as though the Premier League's biggest and richest clubs are beginning to sniff around him. The Gunners are the club being linked at present by Football Transfers, as the title chasers look to strengthen Arteta's hand.

Arsenal are thought to be prioritising additions in attack and defence this month, but Luiz could be of interest.