Juventus midfielder Douglas Luiz looks set to be on the move once again this summer after two separate loan deals during the 2025/26 campaign, with a move to join Manchester United on his agenda.
After a disappointing first season at Juventus following his move from Aston Villa in the summer of 2024, the Brazilian was given the green light to depart the Bianconeri on loan and initially headed to Nottingham Forest.
Amid his struggles at the City Ground with a thigh problem restricting his game time, the 28-year-old returned to former club Villa on loan until the end of the campaign.
Luiz featured more regularly under Unai Emery and finished his season by playing his part in the Villans' Europa League triumph against SC Freiburg.
Now back at Juventus, what comes next for the midfielder will become clear in the weeks ahead.
Luiz's dream move
Douglas Luiz in action for Juventus
Luiz's dream is to secure a move to Manchester United this summer, according to Italian publication TuttoSport.
The player, described as being 'world-class' by former Villa teammate John McGinn, has interest from clubs in Brazil but a return to his homeland is seen as a last resort as he wants to play in England again.
Manchester United's good relationship with Juventus is also mentioned, which in turn could help pave the way for Luiz's dream move if the Red Devils want to lure him to Old Trafford.
Michael Carrick's side have been busy in the summer transfer window already and they are expected to make further moves to bolster their squad, with Brighton and Hove Albion midfielder Carlos Baleba another who would 'love' to join the club.
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The addition of another midfielder, on top of the signings of Andrey Santos and Youri Tielemans, is viewed as a priority.
United want to bring in an experienced player capable of playing in a deeper role who can make an impact in the Champions League.
Luiz, who has made six appearances in Europe's premier competition and a further 24 across the Europa League and Conference League, ticks all the boxes for Carrick's side when it comes to their requirements for a new midfielder.
Potential swap deal
Joshua Zirkzee celebrating after scoring for Manchester United against Wolverhampton Wanderers in the Premier League
TuttoSport mention in their report that the good relationship between both clubs could open the door to a potential swap deal.
This would involve Luiz heading to Manchester United and Joshua Zirkzee moving in the opposite direction.
The Dutchman has been offered to the Italian side already and the players both share Kia Joorabchian as an agent.
Zirkzee is expected to depart Old Trafford before the summer deadline after two difficult seasons with the club.
The 25-year-old's game time was restricted last term as he managed 26 appearances in all competitions, with just five Premier League starts to his name.
Juventus, Roma and Coma are all said to be interested in luring him back to Italy after a successful time with Bologna prior to his Manchester United transfer.