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Aston Villa are beginning to pick up pace in the transfer window and have now put themselves in position to bring a proven Premier League midfielder back to English shores, according to reports.

Aston Villa look to retain key stars under Unai Emery

Unai Emery has needed to remain patient this summer due to the Villans' ongoing battle to address their PSR concerns, which has stalled the bulk of their business from occuring early on in the window. Only Yasin Ozcan and Zepiqueno Redmond have arrived so far.

Despite Manchester United's apparent interest in Ollie Watkins, David Ornstein has confirmed Aston Villa have 'no intention' of selling the England international to a direct rival, which will come as a relief to supporters.

He stated: "Ollie Watkins, as reported by our colleague Laurie Whitwell, is among those on Manchester United’s recruitment list. I’d be surprised if he wasn’t on the recruitment list of top clubs.

"He’s such a good striker and a good lad, and they’ve maybe held some enquiries with his camp. I’m not sure if that’s gone to Villa directly.

"From my conversations with Villa, they see themselves as having no intention to part with Ollie Watkins. They want him to continue with him up front for them."

Marcus Rashford's departure following a successful loan spell last season has opened the door for Aston Villa to make a move for Atalanta star Ademola Lookman, though he is also the subject of interest from Atletico Madrid and Nottingham Forest.

Frustration has been encountered by those who want to see the Villans pull off early deals. Nevertheless, their luck could be about to change following recent developments in connection with a midfield target.

Aston Villa could advance for Douglas Luiz

According to Tuttosport, Aston Villa could look to complete a sensational move for ex-midfielder Douglas Luiz following his frustrating time at Juventus.

Saudi Arabian clubs are also in the picture to sign the Brazil international. Still, he is said to have no interest in moving to the Gulf region or Turkish Super Lig despite the Old Lady being keen to offload him as soon as possible.

Como are keen suitors willing to offer Luiz an escape route while remaining in Serie A. Meanwhile, Leeds, Everton and Manchester United all have their eye on his current situation.

Aston Villa sporting director Monchi has previously shared his admiration for Luiz, stating: "Would I take him back? After his departure, we made investments and our midfield is well-stocked with Tielemans, Onana, Kamara, Barkley. But I would always take Douglas back, at any club: he’s top class."

Indeed, the Rio De Janeiro-born man was a revelation at Aston Villa, though he wasn't able to hit the ground running at Juventus in 27 appearances last term.

Now, with the door open for a new career chapter, £138,000 per week earner Luiz could well complete an unexpected return to the scene of his former glories.