Report: Everton has shown strong interest in a Brazilian star Douglas Luiz during the summer transfer window
In what could be one of the most high-profile moves of their summer transfer window, Everton are now being linked with a sensational swoop for Brazilian midfielder Douglas Luiz, a player once valued at a staggering £60 million. The Toffees, under new ownership and with ambitions to climb back up the Premier League table, have reportedly made an approach for the Juventus star, as they look to add proven quality and experience to their midfield ranks.
Luiz, 27, is no stranger to English football, having previously impressed during his time at Aston Villa. He racked up 175 appearances in the Premier League, contributing 20 goals and 18 assists from midfield—a record that cements his status as one of the most well-rounded and consistent midfielders in recent years. His performances even drew comparisons with England star Declan Rice, with pundits such as Jermaine Pennant previously claiming that Luiz offered more in terms of creativity, goalscoring, and flair, while still matching Rice’s defensive output.
Speaking on Luiz’s abilities, Pennant once boldly stated:
> “Any team would dream to have Rice, but there are better sixes in the Premier League at the moment. I would say Douglas Luiz of Aston Villa. He can do everything Rice can do—only better. He’s more creative, scores more, and still breaks up play with strength and timing. For £60 million, I’d pick Luiz over Rice any day.”
From Premier League Star to Turin Outcast
Luiz’s move to Juventus last summer, in a deal worth approximately £42 million, was initially viewed as a significant coup for the Italian giants. However, his debut season in Serie A didn’t go as planned. Struggling to nail down a consistent starting spot and failing to fully adapt to the demands of Italian football, Luiz found himself slipping down the pecking order in Turin.
Despite his recent challenges, Everton appear to be ready to bet on the midfielder’s proven Premier League pedigree and are said to have made initial contact over a potential transfer. According to La Gazzetta Dello Sport (via Goodison News), the Merseyside club has enquired about Luiz’s availability, although a formal offer is yet to be made. Their interest signals intent: Everton want a central figure in the middle of the park—someone who can control games, drive forward with purpose, and lead both on and off the pitch.
Everton’s Midfield Makeover: Ndidi Also on the Radar
Luiz is not the only midfielder on Everton’s radar. With Leicester City relegated to the Championship, Nigerian international Wilfred Ndidi is reportedly considering a move to stay in the Premier League. Everton have been heavily linked with the defensive midfielder, who could bring steel and stability to the side, offering a more defensive counterpart to Luiz’s dynamic, box-to-box style.
Adding a pairing like Luiz and Ndidi would represent a huge upgrade in quality and depth for Everton’s midfield—a department that has lacked consistency and creativity in recent seasons.
Upfront Reinforcements: Ivanovic Could Replace Calvert-Lewin
In addition to strengthening their midfield, Everton are also exploring options in attack. One standout name is Millwall’s Serbian striker Mihailo Ivanovic. The 20-year-old forward enjoyed a breakout campaign last season, netting 12 goals in 23 Championship starts. The club reportedly sees him as a potential long-term replacement for Dominic Calvert-Lewin, who continues to struggle with injuries and inconsistent form.
With Thierno Barry already arriving this summer, Ivanovic could add another dimension to Everton’s front line. While Barry brings flair and mobility, Ivanovic offers a more traditional number-nine presence—physical, clinical, and aerially dominant.
A New Era Under Friedkin?
New owner Dan Friedkin’s takeover has sparked renewed optimism at Goodison Park. Everton’s approach for a player of Luiz’s calibre could reflect the club’s new ambitions—to build a side capable not just of survival, but of competing higher up the table again.
Douglas Luiz is still in his prime and carries the pedigree and leadership Everton so desperately need. If the Toffees can finalize the deal, it may well be one of the most impressive transfers of the summer—signaling that Everton are no longer content with mediocrity and are ready to restore their status as one of English football’s historic powerhouses.