Everton are desperate for someone like Douglas Luiz in their midfield next season.
David Moyes is crying out for a creative source in the middle of the park to help Thierno Barry with his goals next season.
It has been suggested that Beto will still lead the line despite Barry’s signing, as Moyes wants the Frenchman as his long-term option.
But for the here and now, the Scotsman will want creativity oozing through his side as they look to get back into Europe.
Luiz has a price tag of £26m-30m, but Everton aren’t alone in the race with West Ham also keen.
Douglas Luiz in Juventus training.
Photo by Daniele Badolato – Juventus FC/Juventus FC via Getty Images
The real frontrunner between Everton and West Ham for Douglas Luiz
The former Aston Villa man is clearly keen on a return to the Premier League, as Everton can make that happen.
But the Irons could also be the team for the Brazilian after his £42m move to Juventus has been a disaster.
Juve are ready to sanction Luiz’s exit, and it remains highly likely that he won’t be in the Serie A next season, as his time in the Premier League has been difficult to top.
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Sensational football from Aston Villa! 🔥
Douglas Luiz with a classy finish from a brilliant pass from John McGinn 👏 pic.twitter.com/TF2l6BSd3A
— Sky Sports Premier League (@SkySportsPL) January 1, 2023
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With the Toffees hoping to strike a deal, it’s once again, The Friedkin Group who are slacking.
The print edition of Gazzetta dello Sport (12/07/25) suggests that West Ham are the frontrunners in this deal, with Graham Potter’s side ‘most determined’ to sign Luiz.
It’s stated that ‘mediation is underway’ for an expensive loan with a value of £8.6m, with an obligation to buy in the pipeline, which looks to secure a ‘discount’ on his previous price tag, as £21m-£26m has been set.
The negotiations are ongoing, and with parties in favour of a transfer, there shouldn’t be a problem finding an agreement, to Everton’s dismay.
READ MORE: What Villarreal insiders are now saying about Thierno Barry is rather concerning after Everton deal
It’s an absolute must that Everton don’t lose out on Luiz to West Ham
It comes as no surprise that Everton and West Ham are both targeting the same players, but losing out on Luiz would be a catastrophe.
The Brazilian comes with Premier League experience, but his overall ability should warrant him being a statement signing at the Hill Dickinson Stadium.
Fans are buzzing with interest in Luiz, and after a slow start from The Friedkins, this will only anger Evertonians more.
But the more apparent matter is that the Hammers will be the main competitors to Moyes’ side, and if a theme develops, Everton will look like a less attractive option.
Alan Myers isn’t hearing the Luiz interest, but West Ham are clearly going full steam ahead, with Everton left behind once again.