Revealed: Arsenal's Top Transfer Priority as Rumors of Ruben Neves Interest Dismissed

Rumors suggest that Aston Villa's standout player, Douglas Luiz, is the primary target for Arsenal as the January transfer window approaches. Arsenal made significant investments in the summer, spending over £200 million to secure the services of players like Kai Havertz, Jurrien Timber, Declan Rice, and David Raya.

Under the guidance of Mikel Arteta, Arsenal has enjoyed a successful start to the 2023/24 season, as they currently sit in first place in the Premier League standings. This achievement becomes even more impressive considering the team has had to contend with several injuries throughout the campaign.

As Thomas Partey is anticipated to depart from the Emirates Stadium at the conclusion of the season, Douglas Luiz is viewed as a fitting replacement for the Ghanaian midfielder, who has had a history of injury concerns. Arsenal is reportedly resolute in their pursuit of Luiz and is determined to secure a deal for him during the January transfer window.

Douglas Luiz has been in outstanding form for Aston Villa ever since the arrival of manager Unai Emery. He has played a pivotal role in the club's resurgence under the Spanish coach. In today's match against Tottenham in north London, Luiz continued his impressive performance by contributing to his ninth goal of the season in all competitions. He played a crucial part in creating Villa's equalizer, helping them secure a 2-1 victory.

 Unai Emery’s work at Aston Villa, once again excellent. 22 Premier League wins in 2023.

Into PL top four now — same points as Liverpool, one from Man City and two from Arsenal leading the table.

Excellent team, excellent manager. pic.twitter.com/EV8i3e84wp

— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) November 26, 2023

During the first half additional time, Douglas Luiz delivered a superb cross that found Pau Torres, who headed the ball past Guglielmo Vicario, resulting in a goal for Aston Villa. Prior to this, Tottenham Hotspur had taken the lead in the 22nd minute with a goal from Giovani Lo Celso. However, Aston Villa turned the game around in the second half, with goals from Torres and Ollie Watkins, securing a victory for the away team.

“Douglas is playing very good and he improves a lot," Emery said. "His commitment is amazing. I am very happy with him and I want to keep him, of course.

"I think he’s happy with us, his commitment with his national team and his performances like today are amazing, fantastic. I want him.”

In the previous year, Arsenal made three unsuccessful attempts to acquire Douglas Luiz as they sought to sign him on deadline day during the summer transfer window. However, Luiz ultimately decided to extend his stay at Aston Villa and signed a new contract that will keep him at the club until 2026.

According to Romano, a reputable source on his YouTube channel, Arsenal's primary target is Douglas Luiz from Aston Villa. He clarifies that despite rumors, there are no ongoing discussions regarding Ruben Neves. However, Romano suggests that securing a deal for Luiz won't be straightforward for Arsenal. While the club is keen on him, negotiations with Aston Villa are expected to be challenging. The outcome of the potential transfer remains uncertain.