There are increasing worries in Italy that the transfer situation involving Douglas Luiz, who reportedly desires a return to the Premier League just one year after joining Juventus from Aston Villa, may persist until the summer transfer window closes at the end of August.
The 27-year-old, acquired by Juventus for €50 million last summer, did not live up to expectations, featuring in only 19 Serie A matches, with merely three starts. This underwhelming performance likely fueled his reported desire to move.
Further complicating matters, the Brazilian midfielder also failed to report for the initial days of Juventus`s pre-season training camp this summer, an absence for which he has since issued an apology.
Douglas Luiz`s Situation Complicates Juventus`s Midfield Search
Despite his less-than-stellar first season and his recent unauthorized absence, Douglas Luiz continues to attract significant interest from various clubs.
According to reports from La Gazzetta dello Sport, Premier League sides Nottingham Forest, Everton, and West Ham have all made inquiries about the Brazilian`s availability this summer. Earlier reports also indicated interest from Fulham and recently promoted Leeds United.
However, as per La Gazzetta dello Sport, Douglas Luiz has yet to communicate his intentions to Juventus, leaving the club in limbo.
The Italian newspaper, often referred to as “The Pink Paper,” highlights the risk that this ongoing transfer saga could extend until the very last day of the summer window. This prolonged uncertainty could significantly impede the Bianconeri`s efforts to secure a suitable replacement in midfield.
Recent reports suggest Juventus maintains interest in Sporting CP`s Morten Hjulmand. However, with a reported price tag of €40 million, any bid from the Bianconeri is contingent upon Douglas Luiz`s departure.
Juventus`s watchlist for midfield reinforcements also includes two other Danish players: Brighton`s Matt O`Riley and Marseille`s Pierre-Emile Hojbjerg. Additionally, Sofyan Amrabat and Yves Bissouma have been mentioned as potential alternative options.
