Arsenal transfer target Douglas Luiz could ‘end up joining’ the Gunners, according to journalist Simon Phillips.

The Lowdown: Deadline Day frustration

The Brazil international shot to prominence with heavy speculation on the final day of the summer transfer window as Mikel Arteta sought to bring in a new central midfielder before the 11pm deadline.

According to football.london, the Gunners made three deadline day bids for the 24-year-old – starting with £20m and culminating with a final £25m offer. However, much to Arsenal’s frustration, Premier League rivals Aston Villa remained firm on their reported £40m asking price.

Despite this, Luiz’s contract with the Midlands outfit expires next summer, so he will be able to speak with clubs from abroad in the near future about a potential free transfer.

The Latest: Phillips’ claim

Amid rumours that Atletico Madrid, Chelsea and Liverpool were also keen on securing the midfielder’s signature, Phillips still believes that Luiz will end up signing for Arsenal.

Speaking with GiveMeSport, the journalist claimed: “The situation there if he does become a free agent, Chelsea will probably have a look at it. But I think he’ll end up joining Arsenal.”

The Verdict: Great prospective addition

Having arrived at Villa Park in 2019 after a loan move to Girona from parent club Manchester City, Luiz has gone on to become a great servant to the Midlands outfit with 118 appearances for the club. Consequently, he has won nine caps for the Brazil national team.

However, the 24-year-old seems to have fallen out of favour at Villa. Despite featuring in six out of seven Premier League games so far this season, the midfielder has started just twice, often coming on as a substitute for the final 15 to 20 minutes.

Therefore, Luiz - who has previously been hailed as ‘unbelievable’ by his former Villa boss Dean Smith - may want to see out the rest of his contract with the Villains, potentially opting to join Arsenal on a free transfer next summer instead.

Given that Arteta is not overflowing with central midfield options, and that the 24-year-old ranks highly among positional peers in Europe's top five leagues for pressures, goal-creating actions and corner kick deliveries, the Brazilian could be a tremendous prospective addition at the Emirates Stadium.