Turin, July 29 – Everton are reportedly in pole position to sign Juventus midfielder Douglas Luiz, according to Gazzetta dello Sport via SportWitness. Despite competition from Premier League rivals West Ham United and Nottingham Forest, the Brazilian is understood to favour a move to Merseyside.
The 27-year-old only joined Juventus from Aston Villa last summer in a €50 million deal, but his time in Turin has been short-lived. Luiz is now pushing for an exit, and Everton have emerged as his preferred destination.
However, the Toffees are aiming to secure the midfielder on a dry loan, which is at odds with Juventus’ stance. The Italian giants would prefer a loan with an obligation to buy at the end of the season, as they look to recoup a significant portion of their investment.
If an agreement is reached, Luiz’s technical qualities and ability to dictate play from deep would provide a strong complement to Idrissa Gana Gueye’s tenacity in midfield. On paper, it could give Everton one of the more balanced and dynamic central pairings in the league.
Talks are ongoing, and much may depend on whether Everton are willing to meet Juventus’ conditions – or if the Serie A side relent in their pursuit of a guaranteed sale.