Villa sporting director praises Luiz with Man City progressing in January | All Football

The Brazilian is hot property this winter after a poor start to life in Serie A.

Only in the summer did the 26-year-old move to Juve from Aston Villa for big money.

But he has managed nine Serie A appearances in the first half of the season, leading to Juve ready to cash in on him.

Italian outlet Gazzetta dello Sport state that Juve are ready to move on from Luiz, with City ready to move.

“He is playing less than everyone expected, but we are talking about a strong player,” Villa’s sporting director, Monchi, said of Luiz to Gazzetta recently.

“There are guys who arrive and impose themselves, others who need time. Patience is needed, but Douglas’ qualities are beyond discussion. He will become important for Juve.

“He is a playmaker and every ball that comes out of his feet has meaning: last year he played 90% of the games with us. It was definite.”