Arsenal backed to sign ‘great’ Aston Villa star by Invincible

Robin Bairner

• 4 Mar 2024 05:20 CST
• 3 min read

Arsenal legend Gilberto Silva has backed Mikel Arteta’s side to go out and sign Aston Villa’s Douglas Luiz in the summer.

The 25-year-old has long been linked with a possible move to the Emirates Stadium, and with the future of Thomas Partey with the Gunners still uncertain, there is scope for Arteta to bring in an additional midfield option.

The Spaniard is seeking to strengthen his side in order to win the Premier League title, and Silva, who was a member of the Invincibles squad that lifted the North Londoners’ last crown in 2003/04, has backed the signing of the Brazil international.

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“He's progressing, he's improving and he's well adapted to the Premier League. He’s proven himself that he can go to the next level,” he told Chris Wheatley on Shots TV.

“I really enjoy it when the Brazilian players come to the Premier League, which for me is still the most difficult league to play in, especially for South Americans to come and adapt well.

“Why not to Arsenal next season? It would be a great move for him and the club.”

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Douglas Luiz, who is under contract at Aston Villa until 2026, has an Estimated Transfer Value (ETV) of €47.4 million.

He has played 38 matches in all competitions this season as the Villans chase Champions League football next term, scoring 10 goals and providing eight assists.

Gilberto Silva hails Rice

A former midfielder himself, Gilberto Silva was asked which player in the Premier League currently is best in his former position.

As well as mentioning Rodri, he reserved special praise for Declan Rice.

He said: “Declan is doing a good job. I think he’s adapted to the way Arsenal play because he was used to playing in a different way at West Ham. But he’s adapted well.

“I like to see him and Jorginho because they’re two different types of players in the same position. But I think one complements the other.”

Arsenal are in Premier League action on Monday as they take on Sheffield United with the goal of staying in touch with Liverpool and Manchester City at the top of the table.