Ian Maatsen. (Robbie Jay Barratt - AMA/Getty Images)
Aston Villa’s remarkable campaign shows no signs of slowing down.
Unai Emery’s side remain firmly in the Premier League title conversation, sitting third with 12 matches to play — seven points behind leaders Arsenal and just three adrift of Manchester City in second.
Villa’s consistency has kept them in the hunt not only for Champions League qualification, but potentially something even greater. With momentum building, attention has already started to shift toward strengthening the squad for next season.
One priority appears to be securing the long-term future of a current loanee — and Villa could be prepared to sacrifice another first-team player to make it happen.
Villa Prepared to Swap Maatsen for Luiz
Douglas Luiz’s return to Aston Villa on loan gathered pace late in the winter window, with the Midlands club moving decisively to beat Chelsea to his signature. The Brazil international midfielder is currently back at Villa Park on a temporary deal, with the club holding an option to make the move permanent.
The 27-year-old has made an immediate impact.
Despite joining during a challenging period marked by injuries in midfield, Luiz has started every Premier League fixture since arriving, providing stability and composure. He was previously described as “top class” by Villa’s former sporting director Monchi — praise he has largely lived up to during this spell.
According to Calciomercato IT, Villa are keen to finalise a permanent deal in the summer. The agreed option to buy stands at around €25 million, a fee the club consider reasonable given his influence and experience.
However, negotiations could involve an interesting twist. Defender Ian Maatsen may be used as part of a potential swap arrangement. The Dutch full-back is reportedly unsettled due to limited opportunities, despite clocking over 1,000 Premier League minutes this season. There is a growing sense that Emery does not view him as untouchable within the squad.
With Maatsen believed to carry a valuation similar to Luiz’s — roughly in the €25m range — a straight swap, or deal involving both players, could appeal to all parties and simplify negotiations.
About the Author
