Godwin ObajeEverton Pushing Hard to Land Douglas Luiz – €10m Gap Remains but Confidence Growing Over Deal
Everton are said to be “acting quite seriously” in their efforts to sign Juventus midfielder Douglas Luiz, with negotiations between the two clubs ongoing and a deal reportedly edging closer.
According to well-known Italian journalist Gianni Balzarini, the Toffees are actively working on a proposal that would meet Juventus’ demands, though there is still a €10 million gap between the two sides’ valuations.
Luiz, 26, only joined Juventus from Aston Villa last summer in a high-profile €51.5 million move but has failed to settle in Turin. After a difficult season in Serie A, Juventus are now looking to recoup much of that fee by moving the Brazilian international on – and Premier League interest has been strong.
Both Everton and West Ham have been heavily linked with a summer swoop, though reports suggest the Merseyside club have moved ahead of their rivals in recent talks. Balzarini provided an update on his YouTube channel, explaining where the negotiations currently stand.
“So we talked about the exit options. There’s Douglas Luiz, who Everton are acting quite seriously for,” he revealed.
“Juve want to make €40m. A guarantee of €10m plus €30m. Everton are currently reaching €30m overall. I think an agreement will be reached there too.”
That €10 million gap remains a sticking point for now, but Everton are believed to be confident that a resolution can be found in the coming days, particularly as Juventus are under pressure to move players on to balance their books and reinvest in their squad.
The Turin club are reportedly open to a structured deal that includes guaranteed fees and achievable add-ons, which Everton are understood to be exploring. It’s a delicate balance for the Blues, who are trying to reinforce David Moyes’ midfield without breaching financial regulations or overextending themselves in the market.
Luiz’s mixed performances last season have raised some debate, with his valuation and suitability for a return to the Premier League questioned by some. Balzarini touched on this polarising view among fans and pundits alike.
“Everyone has their own opinion – for some he’s very strong, for others he’s a dud,” he said. “You see how in football there are a wide variety of opinions, one diametrically opposed to the other, so everyone has their own opinion. But Douglas Luiz is officially on his way out.”
Should Everton seal the deal, Luiz would become one of the club’s marquee signings this summer as Moyes reshapes the squad in his second spell at Goodison Park. The Brazilian’s Premier League experience with Villa, combined with his technical ability and energy in midfield, would make him a significant addition to the Toffees’ engine room.
For now, the deal is not done – but with all parties keen and only €10 million standing in the way, Everton may not have to wait much longer.
Godwin Obaje
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