Arsenal linked with player that Bent claimed Guardiola wishes was at Manchester City

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Arsenal are reportedly want Aston Villa midfielder Douglas Luiz this summer as the Brazilian continues to impress for Dean Smith’s side – and Darren Bent has recently claimed Pep Guardiola will be wishing he still had him.

Luiz, 22, has been in stunning form since the restart for Villa as the Midlands outfit look to pull off an excellent escape from the depths of the drop zone. A 1-0 win over Arsenal has seemingly left a lasting impression.

Indeed, 90Min claim that Arsenal are considering a move for the one-time Brazil international – who has also been linked with a return to Manchester City. He cost Aston Villa just £15million (BBC).

Now, Arsenal are considering a move and Gunners supporter Bent – who played for Tottenham during his career – claimed earlier this season that Guardiola would be wishing that the Brazilian was still at Manchester City.

“We’ve heard Pep (Guardiola) talk about him, wishing he was still there (at Manchester City) because he is a special player. I’ve seen him many times this season absolutely control games,” Bent told Quest, as per Football365.

“Tonight was exactly the same, getting on the ball, making things happen. He’s not just a defensive midfield player who stops attacks, and gets on the ball, he can score great goals as well. He was really impressive.”

TBR’s view – Luiz a good player, but Arsenal quality?

The Gunners certainly need a holding midfielder this summer but Thomas Partey is by far and away the best addition the north London side can make. Luiz is a good option, but is some way off the standard of Partey.

If Mikel Arteta cannot afford to pay the kind of fee expected for Partey, then perhaps Luiz would prove to be a cheaper option. But if Villa stay up, then surely he would still cost double what Villa paid for him?