Aston Villa are reportedly set to retain midfielder Douglas Luiz, amid speculation of a return to Manchester City.
The Brazilian international was an integral part of Dean Smith's side this season, featuring in all but five of Villa's Premier League games, and he contributed two assists from his deeper role in the middle of the pitch.
Luiz arrived at Villa Park in 2019 for £15m, after never making an appearance for Man City following a failed attempt at securing a work placement when he moved to England from Vasco De Gama.
The Express & Star reports that Villa are now likely to keep hold of Luiz after speculation surrounding a return to the Etihad, which could be completed by the club triggering his buyback clause.
Luiz's buyback clause was included in the deal when he moved from Man City to Villa and it expires this month, so the Premier League champions are running out of time to trigger the clause.
The 23-year-old has made 76 appearances for Aston Villa, scoring three goals and providing five assists for the club along the way.
Sammy Wynne
