What Douglas Luiz did to mock Man United star in 2024 could lead to frosty Old Trafford reunion

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Manchester United are considering a deal for former Aston Villa midfielder Douglas Luiz this summer.

During talks to sell Jadon Sancho to Juventus, a unique transfer opportunity has emerged for Manchester United.

Juventus are willing to include Douglas Luiz in a Sancho swap deal, which could appeal to Ineos and their search for a new midfielder this summer.

Reports suggest Ruben Amorim wants an “athletic” midfielder signed this summer and Douglas Luiz is a perfect profile. United tried to sign Luiz in January having shared a long-term interest in him dating back to his time at Aston Villa.

Luiz became a Premier League star with Villa, but United fans might not remember him fondly after his controversial celebration against the Red Devils.

Douglas Luiz mocked Andre Onana after scoring vs Man Utd

Last summer, Luiz made a £42m move to Juventus, but before that he was a key player in Villa’s midfield.

In February 2024, United beat Villa 2-1 at Villa Park, with Rasmus Hojlund and Scott McTominay on the scoresheet.

But Villa drew level through Luiz’s goal in the second half, and the Brazilian appeared to mock United goalkeeper Andre Onana in his celebration by kneeling down and shaking his shoulders.

After the match, Ten Hag was asked about the celebration and he told Sky Sports: “I don’t have an opinion about that. I haven’t spoken to the players. Maybe it’s fuelling them, I don’t know.”

With Onana set to stay at United this summer, there could be an awkward reunion this summer if Luiz signs from Juventus.

Douglas Luiz explains celebration vs Man United

Luiz’s celebration understandably caused some controversy after he deliberately did it in front of Onana, but he did later explain why he did it.

United legend Rio Ferdinand mocked Luiz for his celebration on social media, with the Red Devils going on to claim all three points at Villa Park.

READ MORE: Man Utd ‘could be tempted’ to sign Matheus Cunha’s Brazil teammate and ‘offers as low as’ £30m could be accepted

Luiz replied to Ferdinand, explaining: “I’m good, thanks. It’s just carnival time in Brazil”.

After a deal for Matheus Cunha was already confirmed by United, Luiz could become the second Brazil international signed by United this summer.