’s hopes of signing star Douglas Luiz in January hinge on the Brazilian forcing through a move and the club remaining compliant with Financial Fair Play rules.
wants to sign the defensive midfielder after injury to .
The Ghanaian is not expected to return to action until the New Year, at which point he will be off to the Africa Cup of Nations to represent his country.
Luiz was the subject of a series of bids from the Gunners in 2022 but Villa held strong in their determination to keep the midfielder.
Arsenal’s interest has remained, and Arteta feels Luiz could add some strength and depth to the Gunners’ midfield.
But Arteta’s plans face two main obstacles.
First, Villa have no intention of listening to offers and consider Luiz to be a key part of Unai Emery’s side.
Luiz will therefore have to angle for a move away from the club, and would have to hand in a transfer request.
The second stumbling block is Financial Fair Play. Arsenal spent £200m last summer and recouped just £60m.
It meant the club had to sign David Raya on loan from Brentford, rather than on a permanent deal.
Villa would not consider such a deal for Luiz, and would likely seek around £70m for the midfielder.
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