Gregg Evans: Villa “advancing” contract talks with £52k-p/w talent, Gerrard needs him – opinion

Aston Villa are making progress in tying down one of their star men…

According to the Athletic journalist Gregg Evans, Douglas Luiz could be set to sign a contract at the club despite slow but steady talks over the summer.

He wrote on his Twitter: “AVFC still hoping to extend the contract of Douglas Luiz. Hearing nothing imminent, but talks are advancing.”

Evans then questioned whether the Brazilian was worth a recall in the Villa midfield for their game against Everton, however, Steven Gerrard opted for Boubacar Kamara once more.

Luiz only has one year left on his current £52k-per-week deal

Despite strengthening well in central midfield, the 24-year-old has been ever-present for the Villains since his move from Manchester City in 2019.

He has featured at least 33 times (his lowest, during the 2020/21 season) every season since that move, even chipping in with two goals and three assists despite being more of a deep-lying playmaker.

He has been instrumental in their continued presence in the Premier League, and now as Gerrard looks to build out his squad to push for European spots, he will want to keep hold of top assets that helped get the club where they are.

To continue progressing as a club it is of paramount importance to retain their best players, especially ones with such “class”.

His role at the heart of the engine room makes him something of a pass-master, and his 1.1 key passes per Premier League fixture last season suggest that he offers a creative outlet despite also contributing with one interception and 1.7 tackles per outing.

Luiz also has performed well alongside John McGinn and Jacob Ramsey, with OneFootball analysing how the three complement one another due to their hard-working core and combined flair.