It is no secret that Arsenal are aiming to add a midfielder to their squad ahead of the January transfer window closing on Monday.
The Gunners have endured plenty of problems in the centre of the park this season, with injuries, suspensions and international call-ups causing huge disruption.
It makes sense then for the Gunners to turn to the market in an attempt to bolster the current Arsenal squad at the Emirates Stadium. A few names have already been linked, with one of those being Aston Villa's Douglas Luiz.
So, as the Gunners attempt to seal a deal for the former Manchester City enforcer, football.london has taken a look at the latest updates on his future.
Villa change transfer stance
Whilst it initially appeared that Villa were keen to keep Luiz at the club, they have now made a surprise call on the midfielder.
According to Gregg Evans of The Athletic, the Villans are set to 'listen' to any offers for the former Manchester City man ahead of deadline day.
It remains to be seen whether the Gunners will lodge a bid and indeed what Villa's current price will be for the player but it is noted that Arsenal are admirers and need a new midfielder before the conclusion of the window.
£30m bid 'rejected'
According to the Evening Standard, Villa have already rejected a £30million bid for Luiz this month from an unnamed Premier League club, though it was not the Gunners.
It's said to be unclear exactly how much the club would demand for Luiz.
Guimaraes impact
Also as per the Evening Standard, as cited by the Sun, should the Magpies sign Guimaraes, Arsenal will press ahead with a deal to bring Luiz to the Emirates.
The report says that Arsenal aren't completely out of the running to sign Guimaraes, but they must act fast if they wish to persuade him to join the Gunners as oppose to Newcastle.
No talks yet
As reported by Italian journalist Fabrizio Romano on Twitter, Arsenal have been interested in Luiz since December, along with Arthur.
However, they're yet to open talks with Villa and with time running out, they will need to act quickly if they want to persuade the West Midlands club to let him go.
Nevertheless, Romano did suggest that fans should keep an eye on any potential developments.
Romano said: "Douglas Luiz situation. Still no talks opened between clubs - but Arsenal have his name in the list together with Arthur and another candidate since December.
"Keep an eye on him, as mentioned on @podcastherewego on Tuesday."
Latest on contract negotiations
Villa manager Steven Gerrard has confirmed that the club are yet to open negotiations with Luiz about a new contract amid reports that he's stalling over a decision.
"No, we haven't opened contract talks yet with Douglas," Gerrard confirmed, as cited by our colleagues at Birmingham Live.
“I think in this period and in this window, it has been the case of trying to strengthen the current squad, make additions and, also, find destinations for some of our younger players in terms of loans.
“Dougie has done okay for us. We've been happy with his training level and the performances that he has given.
“We still think that there's room for him to get better and improve. You know, he had a bit of an injury when we first arrived and we still think there's another gear or two for Dougie to go into.”
The Brazilian's current deal runs out in 2023.
