Former Aston Villa captain Gabby Agbonlahor has been reacting to an update regarding midfielder Douglas Luiz, Football Insider report.

The Lowdown: Luiz wants Arsenal move

Luiz was a late summer target for Arsenal, who reportedly made three bids for the Brazilian, but, as we know, NSWE and Villa stood firm and the defensive midfielder remained in the Midlands beyond the deadline.

However, Luiz, who is into the final 12 months of his Villa Park contract, is still keen on a move to the Emirates and has apparently even told friends he wants to sign for the Gunners.

Villa have held talks with the 24-year-old over fresh terms but are yet to reach an agreement.

The Latest: Agbonlahor reacts

Agbonlahor, who contributes for Sky Sports, was talking to FI regarding the update on Luiz.

The former Villa man said he can’t see Luiz extending his Villa stay due to interest from Arsenal, saying he can’t be blamed for wanting to move to a side challenging in Europe.

“I don’t think he’ll sign a new contract now.

“When you know Arsenal are in for you and you know you’ve only got a year left, you’ll see that year out and go on a free transfer.

“That’s what I would do if I had my eyes on a move to a club that is fighting for the Champions League or European football.

“You can’t blame him on that, no. I just don’t see him signing a new contract, to be honest.”

The Verdict: Time to sell

Should Luiz’s situation remain the same, you’d expect that Arsenal could revisit their interest in the New Year when the player will be into the final six months of his deal.

That winter window could be the last chance Villa have to receive a fee for the midfielder, labelled as ‘important’ by Pep Guardiola, so it may make sense for the club to cash in.

Of course, a replacement will be needed if Luiz moves on, so it might be wise for Villa to look far and wide for a new holding midfielder over the coming months.