Arsenal expected to move for Premier League ace

Arsenal are expected to make an approach to sign Aston Villa midfielder Douglas Luiz before Monday's deadline.

The Brazilian is a long-term target for the Gunners, and they failed with a tentative move to sign him last summer.

Birmingham Mail now claims that the north London giants could make a late move for Luiz before the transfer window closes.

The 23-year-old remains a key player for the Villans, but his future is uncertain with his contract expiring in 17 months.

The west Midlands outfit are looking to sign a new defensive midfielder in Rodrigo Bentancur from Juventus this week.

His arrival could pave the way for Luiz's departure, but he won't come on the cheap. Villa have already rejected a £35m bid.

Mikel Arteta is a huge admirer of Luiz, having previously monitored his progress at Girona on loan from Manchester City.

The Gunners were initially planning for a summer approach, but could speed up the progress after opting against signing Arthur.