Leeds want Club World Cup star, may join on loan deal with obligation to buy – report
Douglas Luiz Facing Juventus Exit as Leeds United Plot Premier League Return for Brazilian Midfielder
Juventus midfielder Douglas Luiz could be on the move again just one year after completing a high-profile transfer from Aston Villa. Despite the excitement surrounding his arrival in Turin, the Brazilian has failed to establish himself under manager Igor Tudor and has been largely overlooked during the Bianconeri’s Club World Cup campaign in the United States, featuring in just a single match so far.
Now, with Juventus seemingly open to parting ways with the 27-year-old, a return to the Premier League could be on the cards—this time with Championship winners Leeds United. Reports emerging from Italy suggest that 49ers Enterprises, the ownership group behind the Yorkshire club, have already made contact with Juventus regarding Luiz’s availability.
According to Tuttomercatoweb (30 June), Juventus are actively exploring options to offload Luiz after the Club World Cup concludes. The Italian giants are believed to be seeking a resolution that would help ease their wage bill, and Luiz’s departure is seen as a logical step. A potential deal is reportedly being discussed, possibly structured as a loan with a mandatory purchase clause, with Luiz’s representatives currently assessing suitable options.
Interest from Leeds United appears genuine, and with Juventus potentially facing elimination from the Club World Cup at the hands of Real Madrid on Tuesday (1 July), the timing for Luiz’s departure could accelerate in the days ahead.
Leeds in the Market for Midfield Reinforcements
Leeds United manager Daniel Farke is in the market for a top-quality central midfielder after losing Joe Rothwell, who had joined on loan from Bournemouth last season. Rothwell played a crucial role for the Whites during a challenging period when both Ethan Ampadu and Ilia Gruev were sidelined with injuries. His partnership with Ao Tanaka helped steady the ship and proved vital as Leeds clinched the Championship title and secured their return to the Premier League.
The club recently missed out on highly rated midfielder Habib Diarra, who opted to join Sunderland instead. That setback has left Leeds scrambling for alternatives, and Luiz presents an intriguing option. While his stint in Serie A has been underwhelming, Luiz remains a player with proven Premier League pedigree, having made over 175 appearances for Aston Villa and earning international caps with Brazil.
During his time at Villa Park, Luiz was widely regarded as one of the Premier League’s most reliable midfielders, known for his passing range, composure under pressure, and ability to shield the backline effectively. His experience in England and top-flight quality would be a major boost for a newly promoted Leeds side looking to avoid an immediate return to the Championship.
Can Luiz Help Leeds Survive?
There remains some uncertainty over whether Luiz would be open to a move to Elland Road, particularly as the club is expected to be involved in a relegation battle next season. However, a regular starting role in a Premier League side might appeal to the Brazilian, especially with opportunities at Juventus looking increasingly limited.
Daniel Farke will be hoping to convince the midfielder of the club’s project, and if Leeds can strike a deal, they will be acquiring a player who could significantly enhance their survival prospects. The ball is now in Luiz’s court as Juventus weigh their options and the transfer window begins to heat up.
Should the move go through, it would signal a bold statement of intent from Leeds United, who are looking to re-establish themselves in the top flight with smart, ambitious signings.