Ian Maatsen linked in Aston Villa swap for Douglas Luiz

Aston Villa could consider using Ian Maatsen as part of a swap deal to secure Douglas Luiz permanently, with reports in Italy suggesting Juventus are weighing up summer changes in defence.

Douglas Luiz returned to Villa Park on loan late in the winter transfer window, with Unai Emery’s side moving quickly to complete the deal. The Midlands club hold an option to buy the Brazilian for €25 million, and he has started every Premier League match since rejoining, helping stabilise a midfield stretched by injuries.

Now, speculation from Calciomercato IT links the future of Luiz to Juventus’ plans involving Andrea Cambiaso.

According to the Italian outlet, Juventus are open to parting ways with Cambiaso this summer and are exploring potential replacements. Aston Villa’s Ian Maatsen has emerged as a name of interest.

The Dutch defender is reportedly unsettled in Birmingham due to limited prominence within Emery’s long-term vision. While Maatsen has accumulated over 1,000 Premier League minutes this season, the suggestion is that he is not viewed as indispensable.

That scenario could create room for negotiation. With Maatsen and Douglas Luiz believed to carry similar market valuations, the idea of a swap deal has been floated as a practical solution for both clubs.

Having followed Villa’s recruitment strategy closely, such structured negotiations would align with Emery’s preference for targeted squad refinement rather than wholesale change.

While Luiz has delivered consistency since returning, concerns remain over his recent injury record. During his spell at Juventus, he endured recurring muscle problems that limited availability. Similar issues surfaced earlier in his career, including during a loan at Nottingham Forest.

Villa’s current midfield depth has made his presence valuable, but committing to a permanent transfer requires long-term reliability. Letting Maatsen depart would remove a versatile, technically secure option in defence.

It remains too early to draw firm conclusions about whether Juventus will formalise their interest or whether Villa will pursue a structured exchange. Much will depend on summer budget priorities and squad balance.

Villa are expected to review their midfield and defensive depth at the end of the season before triggering any permanent clauses. Juventus’ movement in the full-back market could accelerate talks.

For Emery, maintaining balance between experience and durability will be central to any decision. If discussions progress, clarity could emerge early in the summer window.

Should Villa prioritise securing Douglas Luiz, or protect depth by retaining Maatsen?