Douglas Luiz has expressed a desire to join Manchester United, according to a report in the Italian publication TuttoSport. The 28-year-old Brazil international currently plays for Juventus, and the report suggests a potential exchange deal involving United forward Joshua Zirkzee could facilitate the transfer.
Manchester United have already secured the signings of Andrey Santos and Youri Tielemans this summer, strengthening their midfield options. However, the club’s new ownership group, INEOS, are reportedly keen to add a third midfielder to manager Michael Carrick’s squad before the transfer window closes. United’s return to the Champions League next season is a key factor in their ambition to challenge for both domestic and European honours.
Luiz’s career began in his native Brazil before moving to Europe with Slavia Prague in 2017. He then spent time in the Premier League with Nottingham Forest and Aston Villa before joining Juventus. While his impact in Italy has been described as underwhelming by TuttoSport, the midfielder believes a move to Old Trafford would revitalise his career. The report indicates Juventus are willing to part with Luiz for a fee of €30 million (approximately £26 million or $34.1 million).
The proposed swap deal would see Zirkzee move in the opposite direction, with Juventus reportedly interested in acquiring the Netherlands international. United are seemingly open to offloading Zirkzee, and the potential exchange could provide a mutually beneficial solution for both clubs. The report suggests both clubs have a historically amicable relationship, which could ease negotiations. A successful transfer would further bolster United’s midfield ahead of a demanding season, while Juventus would add a forward option to their squad.
