'The only way' - New Aston Villa swap deal touted as different player ‘discussed’ in blow to Arsenal

Douglas Luiz is looking increasingly likely to make a summer transfer as Villa need to generate funds and Unai Emery aims to plug gaps in his squad.

The Brazilian has been heavily linked with a move to either Arsenal or Juventus in recent weeks after it emerged Villa would let him leave for £50 million. A sensational swap deal has even been touted for Luiz to join Juve and Weston McKennie to move in the other direction.

There’s now been an update on the Juve front, perhaps moving Arsenal behind in the race to acquire Luiz’s services. Transfer news journalist Fabrizio Romano reports Villa and Juve are in active discussions over a potential deal, with Luiz for McKennie already discussed as an option.

The key detail now, though, is the fact a new name - Samuel Iling-Junior - has also entered the frame. It’s said the only way an agreement can be reached between the two clubs is if Juve include at least one player, if not both.

Villa might consider McKennie and Iling-Junior

McKennie, who spent the 2022/23 campaign on loan at Leeds United, featured in 34 of Juventus’ 38 Serie A matches last season. The American didn’t score any goals but he did notch seven assists, improving from his mere one goal contribution in 20 games for Leeds.

Iling-Junior, meanwhile, has been quietly bursting through the ranks at Allianz Stadium following a £1.5 million transfer from Chelsea. The left winger, who has an excellent first touch and impressive acceleration, has been utilised as an impact substitute. He scored one and assisted two in 978 minutes of action last term.

Villa, in need of a defensive-minded midfielder and a winger, could be tempted to accept if cash is also included. Luiz was signed from Manchester City for just £15 million, so profit can easily be secured to help Villa with their PSR troubles.