However, Villa rebuffed their approaches, keen to hold onto the Brazilian international, who has since established himself as one of the most consistent performers under Unai Emery. Meanwhile, Wolves winger Neto was also linked with a move to the Emirates Stadium during the same summer window.
Romano has revealed that Mikel Arteta’s side still admire the two Premier League youngsters.
Speaking to Caught Offside, the Italian journalist said: “As I recently reported, Arsenal have been monitoring Pedro Neto for some time, and I can also say that Arsenal always keep monitoring the same players they like and Aston Villa midfielder Douglas Luiz remains one of them. He’s always been appreciated.
“Of course, we know that Arsenal had bids rejected for Luiz in September 2022, and he later went on to sign a new contract at Villa Park, which runs until 2026. He’s now a key player for Villa so the deal would not be an easy one, but many clubs appreciate him.”
