Aston Villa put faith in Tottenham linked star after rejecting three January bids

Tottenham were left without major target Douglas Luiz in January with Aston Villa rejecting three bids, one of which was from Spurs, per a report. 

Premier League interest in Luiz was reported throughout the January window. North London sides Arsenal and Tottenham were the frontrunners in the pursuit.

Speculation about the Brazilian’s future began due to Villa having been yet to enter into contract discussions with the midfielder. Villa boss Steven Gerrard stoked the fire by saying Luiz had “done OK” for the club.

Both Spurs and Arsenal were reported to have lined up bids for Luiz. Daily Mail reports that Villa rejected three bids in January, including a deadline day attempt from Spurs.

The main reason for their rejection is likely due to Villa not having a replacement lined up.

The Villans were tracking a number of defensive-midfielders, but ended the January window without improving that position.

With Marvelous Nakamba sidelined for the foreseeable future, Luiz is the only capable defensive-midfielder available.

As such, Villa were unlikely to want to sell the Brazilian.

Arsenal and Tottenham battling for Aston Villa midfielder

Arsenal and Tottenham want Douglas Luiz from Aston Villa

Spurs ended up with Rodrigo Bentancur, who was a target of Villa’s this month. Indeed, they seem to have trumped Villa at the final hour.

Although, Gerrard’s side will likely be lining up a midfield signing for the summer.

Luiz could leave should Bissouma join

Villa were also tracking Brighton’s Yves Bissouma throughout January. The Seagulls’ midfielder was apparently open to a move to Villa park.

However, Brighton wanted £50million, so Villa opted against the transfer.

However, come the summer the Malian will have just a year left on his contract.

As such, he would likely be available for much less than the fee wanted by Brighton. Should he join Villa, Luiz may well go on to pastures new.

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