Darren Bent has urged Aston Villa to give Douglas Luiz a new deal amid some links with a move away from Villa Park.

The defensive midfield player has reportedly been linked with a move back to his old club in Manchester City via a release clause in his contract, as the former Villa, Spurs and Sunderland striker has told Football Insider that his old team that they should give him a new contract:

“He fits that way Villa play nicely.

“He obviously sits in front of that back four, he’s disciplined, doesn’t wander too much, comfortable in possession. You need them type of players.

“We’ve seen players come into that position for Villa and not do very well but he looks comfortable, he looks assured and, for sure, he’s definitely a player that Villa need to keep hold of, because he has been very, very good.”

Luiz needs new deal to fend off City interest

Luiz needs to be given a new deal as soon as possible by Dean Smith's side in order to fend off the reported interest from Man City.

A source from the Manchester club has previously described the Brazil international as a 'hugely talented' player, highlighting the fact that he has admirers back at his old team.

AVFC really need to do all that they can to persuade him to stay, given just how important he has been to their success so far in the Premier League.

Villa currently sit in ninth spot in the top flight table on 22 points, just nine points off of the top with a crucial two games in hand.

Luiz has won no fewer than 4.4 of his duels a match in England's highest division so far this season, as well as averaging 1.3 shots, 1.3 interceptions, 1.1 clearances and one key pass per appearance (Sofascore), showing his impact on the side both attacking and defending wise.

In other news, find out the blow that Villa have been dealt in their pursuit of one transfer target here!