Journalist Pete O’Rourke has claimed that Aston Villa are in talks with Douglas Luiz over a new contract, as per GiveMeSport.

The Lowdown: January interest in Luiz

Labelled a ‘fantastic player’ by Gregg Evans, the Brazil international has been a regular under both Dean Smith and Steven Gerrard this season. The 23-year-old has started 24 Premier League games and recently netted his first goal of the campaign against Southampton.

The Brazilian was a wanted man late in the January transfer window, with Villa rejecting three bids in the final week of thew winter market. Villa have been hoping to extend the player’s contract since then, and O’Rourke has now made a claim on the midfielder.

The Latest: O’Rourke’s comments on Luiz

Talking to GiveMeSport, the journalist had this to say about Luiz, with Villa's sporting director Johan Lange and co still working on a new agreement:

“There are still talks ongoing over a new contract at Villa Park.

“It looks like he’s won favour with Steven Gerrard as well, despite doubts that he might be sold in January.”

The Verdict: Key few months

Luiz will be into the final 12 months of his current deal in the summer, so hopefully an agreement can be reached prior to then.

The South American may well be seeking a pay rise after becoming a key player under Gerrard, with his current salary worth £52,000 per week.

Fellow midfielder Morgan Sanson has made just two league starts all season and is on more money than Luiz, so you couldn’t hold it against Luiz if he is looking to become one of the club’s biggest earners, as his performances have merited such a status.

In other news: 'Brilliant...' - Ashley Preece buzzing as Aston Villa announce another 'long-term deal'