Report: Everton up effort to sign Juventus star Douglas Luiz

The Toffees have emerged as frontrunners to secure the 27-year-old's signature, with negotiations gaining momentum.

Luiz, who joined Juventus from Aston Villa for 50 million euros last summer, struggled to cement a regular spot in Turin, making only 27 appearances without a goal or assist. His limited game time, including just three Serie A starts in the 2024-25 season, was compounded by injuries that sidelined him for 13 matches.

Everton, keen to bolster their squad, have tabled a fresh offer of around 35 million euros, including bonuses, after their initial 30-million-euro bid fell short of Juventus' expectations.

Juventus, however, are holding firm for a fixed 35-million-euro fee, with reports suggesting they could accept 30 million euros plus 10 million euros in add-ons if Everton push hard enough. The Bianconeri are open to a paid loan with a mandatory purchase clause, a structure that aligns with Everton's latest proposal of a loan-to-buy deal.

Interest from West Ham United and Aston Villa has increased the competition, but Luiz has reportedly prioritised Everton, believing their project suits his ambitions.

Everton's midfield is undergoing a significant rebuild following the release of Abdoulaye Doucoure and the permanent signing of Carlos Alcaraz from Flamengo. Idrissa Gana Gueye has also signed a new contract, but manager David Moyes is eager to add Luiz's Premier League-proven quality to complement James Garner, Tim Iroegbunam, and loanee Harrison Armstrong.

"Luiz is a high-level midfielder who can play in three positions," former Juventus coach Thiago Motta said in January. "He can score goals, provide the final pass, and has creativity".

Despite Motta's praise, Luiz struggled to adapt to Juventus' tactical demands under both Motta and current coach Igor Tudor, who replaced Motta in March. Tudor, before joining Juventus, defended Luiz, noting that even legends like Michel Platini needed time to settle in Turin.

However, Luiz's lack of starts under Tudor has fuelled speculation about his departure, with a return to England appearing likely.

Everton's proactive approach has given them an edge, with journalist Rudy Galetti reporting on X that the Toffees have submitted a formal proposal, fending off competition from West Ham and Aston Villa.

Luiz's desire to return to the Premier League, where he thrived at Aston Villa with 175 appearances, 20 goals, and 18 assists, further strengthens Everton's position.

As negotiations progress, Everton are poised to make a statement signing, with Luiz's experience and versatility potentially transforming their midfield for the 2025-26 campaign. The Toffees' early move could prove decisive in securing one of the summer's most sought-after transfers.