Aston Villa star tipped to stay as Jose Mourinho’s Roma consider move

Aston Villa midfielder Douglas Luiz has been backed to stay at the club as he continues to negotiate a new deal at Villa Park.

The Brazilian joined Villa in a £15.1million move from Premier League rivals Manchester City just under three years ago and has helped the club re-establish themselves in the top tier.

Luiz helped Villa avoid relegation and reach the Carabao Cup Final in his first season but was unable to prevent a 2-1 Wembley defeat against his former club.

His form during the early part of the season earned him a maiden call-up to the senior Brazil squad and he made his international debut alongside the likes of Everton star Richarlison and Villa team-mate Philippe Coutinho in a 3-0 friendly win against South Korea in November 2019.

The 24-year-old remained a consistent figure in the Villa midfielder last season as he made 35 appearances in all competitions during the campaign.

But he will enter the final 12 months of his current contract this summer and talks over a new deal are yet to come to a successful conclusion.

Italian outlet Corriere dello Sport have reported Luiz is ‘pushing’ for a move abroad and Jose Mourinho is said to be keen to add him to his Roma squad as they look to build on their Europa Conference League win.

The report states the Serie A club view Villa’s reported £17million asking price as an obstacle to a potential move but are hoping to negotiate a cut-price deal.

However, Daily Express journalist Ryan Taylor believes the Brazil midfielder could extend his time at Villa Park.

Speaking on his Taylor Talks Transfers podcast, he said: “An interesting point is Douglas Luiz, I think he’s a player that could potentially leave Villa.

“There’s been talks over a new contract but those haven’t really got off the ground yet.

“I wouldn’t be surprised if he still signed a new Villa deal, Gerrard seems to be happy with him. There’s interest from Jose Mourinho’s Roma.”