Everton to Decide on Luiz Transfer as Midfielder ‘Makes Intentions Clear’
In what could become one of the summer’s most unexpected transfer sagas, Everton now find themselves at a crossroads as midfielder Douglas Luiz has reportedly made his intentions crystal clear — he wants out. Sources close to the situation suggest that Luiz has communicated a strong desire to leave, catching the Merseyside club off guard and throwing their midfield plans into chaos just weeks before the 2025/26 season begins.
Luiz, who had been loosely linked with a move earlier in the window, has now reportedly rejected Everton’s latest attempt to hold talks over a contract extension. The Brazilian midfielder is believed to be eyeing a step up to European competition and has grown frustrated with Everton’s lack of progress in challenging for top six status. The 26-year-old feels his prime years are slipping by, and with interest brewing from several top Serie A and La Liga clubs, he sees this summer as the ideal time to move.
The shock element of this situation lies in the fact that Everton had no serious intention of selling Luiz just a few weeks ago. He was seen as a key figure in Sean Dyche’s setup — a dynamic box-to-box force capable of breaking up play and launching attacks. But now, with Luiz reportedly “firm” on his stance, Everton’s recruitment team must act fast. If they fail to resolve the situation, they risk losing a key asset without having a proper replacement lined up.
To make matters worse, the interest in Luiz has intensified. According to reports from Italy, Juventus are weighing a bid, while Atletico Madrid have been tracking the player since January. Luiz’s technical ability, passing range, and defensive work rate make him a valuable commodity in today’s market, and his £45 million price tag could easily be met by a Champions League side desperate for midfield reinforcement.
Internally, Everton are now split. Some club officials believe they should cash in while Luiz’s value is high and reinvest in younger prospects. Others argue that losing him now, so close to the season, could undermine the club’s ambitions and spark unrest in the squad. Dyche, for his part, is said to be frustrated with the timing, having built a tactical structure with Luiz at its heart.
Fans have reacted with shock and frustration on social media, with many pleading for the club to either convince Luiz to stay or find a top-tier replacement. The mood around Goodison Park, which had been cautiously optimistic after a solid preseason, is now tinged with uncertainty.
As Everton prepare for a critical board meeting in the coming days to assess Luiz’s position, one thing is clear — the midfielder’s future at the club is hanging by a thread. Whether he’s sold or convinced to stay, this saga could reshape Everton’s entire campaign before a ball has even been kicked.