Arsenal, Liverpool or Man City? Ranking Douglas Luiz’s January transfer options

Aston Villa’s Douglas Luiz is shaping up to be one of the stories of the January transfer window.

The 25-year-old midfielder is wanted by the four teams chasing the Premier League title: Arsenal, Liverpool and Manchester City all want to sign him, while Unai Emery’s side want to retain his services until the end of the season.

With Villa fourth in the standings and flying under the Spaniard, they have given themselves a strong base to retain the Brazil international, but what is the best decision for his career?

Using the career advice tool of data analytics firm SciSports, there’s a very clear answer as to Douglas Luiz’s optimal choice based on the options that are presented to him.

All are attractive options, with strong projects and respected managers, but which club is he best suited to? Here are how the four teams rank, from the worst choice to the best.

— Football Transfers (@Transfersdotcom) November 29, 2023

4. Liverpool

Jurgen Klopp’s side are still seeking midfield depth, but according to SciSports, Douglas Luiz’s playing time at Anfield would likely be difficult to guarantee. Otherwise, the Merseysiders are a nice option for him, with a Club Fit score of 74 very competitive indeed.

3. Aston Villa

Staying put at his current club is only Douglas Luiz’s third-best option, according to SciSports, who believe that Emery’s playing style is not suited to getting the absolute best out of the player. In terms of formation and development of his game, though, the Birmingham club rates well.

2. Manchester City

A return to Man City, where he spent two seasons after signing from Vasco da Gama for €12 million, ranks second on this list of four. There are concerns that he would simply become lost at the Champions League winners, though, with a lack of playing time a notable concern along with Pep Guardiola’s formation.

1. Arsenal

Leading the way comfortably with a Club Fit score of 84 is Arsenal, who can offer Douglas Luiz everything from the opportunity to develop through to playing time in a style that suits his game.

SciSports, meanwhile, reports that the absolute optimum club for Douglas Luiz is Bayern Munich, who have been searching for a midfielder but will surely only enter the transfer market next summer.