Aston Villa set for huge contract boost after ‘agreement’ as Everton lose two key stars to injury

Aston Villa already have a point to prove after their opening day defeat.

Steven Gerrard’s men lost 2-0 to newly promoted Bournemouth away from home, and they will be desperate to add to their empty win column against Everton this weekend.

It has been a busy summer for Villa, who have invested significantly in their new squad, and the pressure is on to put together a much improved campaign.

A good start could be key, and the new signings should help Villa, even if it does take time for them to settle in.

Here we take a look at all the latest news and transfer rumours surrounding Villa Park.

Luiz boost

Villa are set for a fresh boost, with Douglas Luiz set to sign fresh terms at Villa Park.

According to the Daily Mail, the Brazilian will sign a three-year contract extension with Villa after weeks of talks.

It was suggested Luiz could leave, with Villa at risk of losing him on a free next season, given he only has one year remaining on his current deal.

But it’s now being reported a fresh deal has been struck, and Gerrard will be able to rely on Luiz for the coming season and beyond.

The new deal will be seen as a big boost for Villa, who have also improved their midfield with the additions of Philippe Coutinho and Boubacar Kamara this summer.

Everton injury blows

Everton will be without two of their starting centre-backs for their clash with Villa this weekend.

Ben Godfrey suffered a fractured tibula against Chelsea over the weekend and has already undergone surgery to fix the issue.

Meanwhile, Yerry Mina also picked up an injury and will see a specialist after scans showed ligament damage on his ankle.

Everton will be without Godfrey long-term, while Mina also looks set for a spell on the sidelines, starting with this weekend’s trip to the Midlands.