Red Devils eye Juventus midfielder as midfield overhaul stalls

Manchester United’s Red Devils are hunting a third midfielder after securing Youri Tielemans and Andrey Santos, losing Casemiro on a free transfer and seeing Manuel Ugarte injured at the World Cup. Brazilian Douglas Luiz, 28, has voiced a desire to swap Juventus’ black and white stripes for United’s red this summer, a wish reported by Tuttosport.

After a difficult 2025‑26 season, Juventus found it hard to guarantee Luiz regular football, prompting the club to recall him from his loan. The club’s inability to promise him playing time left his future uncertain.

Luiz joined Nottingham Forest on loan last summer, but the agreement ended early as he struggled for playing time at the City Ground. His lack of minutes prompted Juventus to cut the loan short.

He then moved to Aston Villa on loan, featuring in 20 matches across all competitions. His spell included participation in the Europa League final victory over Freiburg.

Aston Villa chose not to exercise the option to sign Luiz permanently, despite his regular involvement. The decision left his future in doubt.

Luiz still has three years remaining on his contract with Juventus. He is willing to stay but insists on a guarantee of playing time, which appears unlikely at present.

Manchester United have been linked with Luiz since last summer, though no deal materialised then. With the Red Devils seeking a third midfielder, United may revive interest as the transfer window approaches.

United also pursued Alex Scott earlier this summer before abandoning the chase, and attention has shifted to Roma’s Manu Kone, who has consented to join the Premier League club. Luiz’s expressed desire underscores the intersecting needs of United’s midfield overhaul and Juventus’s inability to promise regular action.