Douglas Luiz responds to Liverpool transfer rumours

Aston Villa midfielder Douglas Luiz has insisted his head is at Aston Villa, despite rumours of transfer interest from clubs including Liverpool.

The Brazilian has been in fine form so far this season and has been a key component in Unai Emery's high-flying Villa side.

The 25-year-old midfielder has five goals in 12 Premier League appearances and starred on Wednesday night as Villa beat his former side Manchester City 1-0.

Speaking to Sky Sports prior to that victory, Luiz played down reports that claimed both Liverpool and Arsenal had taken an interest in him ahead of the January transfer window.

He said: "I am very happy to hear the stories but I am here at Aston Villa. My focus is totally here. I don't spend a lot of time looking at the stories. I see them, but I don't focus on that and I'm not looking at it every day. My head is here at Aston Villa."

The Brazil international is under contract at Villa Park until 2026.

Liverpool, famously, underwent a midfield rebuild during the summer, saying goodbye to experienced stars Jordan Henderson, James Milner, Fabinho, Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain and Naby Keita, while welcoming Alexis Mac Allister, Dominik Szoboszlai, Wataru Endo and Ryan Gravenberch.

Despite an outlay of around £145m on new talent, there has been speculation that the Reds could still be in the market for another midfielder, with the squad short on defensive-minded 'number six' options.

Anfield Watch having kept an eye on the progress of Genoa midfielder Morten Frendrup. However, the recruitment priority for 2024 will be on the defence.

Liverpool have been seeking a left-sided centre back in particular, but may require more than one centre-back addition in the coming year, following the ACL injury to Joel Matip.