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West Ham United formalize interest in Serie A outcast as Manchester United circle
Hannah Foslien-Imagn Images

West Ham United are keen to move fast to land Manchester United target Douglas Luiz

Manchester United could be set to go head-to-head with West Ham United in the race for Juventus midfielder Douglas Luiz, with the Brazilian increasingly open to a Premier League return.

According to Football Insider, West Ham have now formalised their interest by approaching Juventus over a loan move for the 27-year-old, while United continue to monitor the situation closely. Everton and Nottingham Forest are also in the mix, but Ruben Amorim’s side remain one of the few clubs capable of offering Luiz both a big stage and a realistic route back to the top level of English football.

United’s midfield needs could align with Luiz opportunity

Luiz, who joined Juventus from Aston Villa last summer in a deal worth just over £42 million, has endured a frustrating year in Turin. Struggling to cement a starting spot in the Bianconeri midfield, he has seen his role diminish under the current set-up, and with the 2026 World Cup on the horizon, regular minutes are now a priority for the Brazil international.

Juventus have set a £40 million asking price for a permanent deal but may consider a loan with an obligation to buy if it helps move the player on. United, however, are believed to be exploring the possibility of a season-long loan with an option to buy, giving Amorim the flexibility to assess Luiz’s fit without committing significant funds upfront.

Jadon Sancho could be a key factor

One intriguing angle is the growing suggestion that United could use Juventus’ interest in Jadon Sancho to their advantage. The Serie A giants are long-time admirers of the winger, and a structured deal involving both players could prove mutually beneficial.

Sancho’s future at Old Trafford remains uncertain, and while United are not believed to be in a rush to offload him, using his value as leverage in negotiations for Luiz could be a shrewd move from the club’s recruitment team.

West Ham’s willingness to make the first formal approach does not rule United out of the running. In fact, insiders suggest that Amorim is keeping his powder dry until the conditions of a potential deal become more favourable.

Juventus’ stance remains clear , they would prefer an outright sale, but with several interested clubs hesitant to meet their asking price, a loan arrangement could become the most realistic outcome.

United’s need for midfield reinforcements has been well-documented this summer, and while Benjamin Sesko and attacking additions have dominated headlines, adding an experienced Premier League-proven midfielder like Luiz would strengthen the spine of the team.

A midfield reinforcement worth considering

Luiz was a key figure for Aston Villa during his time in England, known for his passing range, defensive work rate, and composure in possession. If he can rediscover that form, he could slot straight into United’s engine room alongside the likes of Casemiro and Bruno Fernandes.

With West Ham making the first move and Juventus still playing hardball, United will need to decide quickly whether to enter formal negotiations. Given the club’s current need for experience and quality in midfield, Douglas Luiz may just be the right target at the right time, if the price is right.

This article first appeared on We All Follow United and was syndicated with permission.

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