Aston Villa pundit names the three stars he's 'nervous' will quit the club this summer
Douglas Luiz could stay at Aston Villa if the club have an impressive Europa Conference League campaign and qualify for the Champions League.
Speaking exclusively to Football Insider, former Villa and Rangers defender Alan Hutton claimed that "something special" is building at Unai Emery's side, which could convince the sought-after midfielder to stay.
Sources told Football Insider (28 February) that Man City are stepping up their interest in the Brazilian, whom Pep Guardiola is a "huge fan" of, ahead of the summer.
Luiz has been a standout in Villa's impressive squad this season having scored 10 goals and provided eight assists across 38 games in all competitions and has helped them challenge for the top four.
Luiz backed to stay at Aston Villa if form continues
While interest remains in Luiz, Hutton also suggested the 25-year-old could be rewarded with a new deal if Villa earn an initially unexpected top-four finish.
"You're always nervous that your best players could be sold," he told Football Insider.
"You think that of John McGinn or Ollie Watkins - you always have those fears.
"When your players are doing well, there's always going to be clubs watching them.
"That being said, if Villa finish strong, do well in the Conference League and get Champions League football, then he'll get rewarded.
"He looks really happy and he's a key part of that squad - he's been massive.
"He loves the fans and the fans love him.
"Would he want to move from Villa when you feel something special is building? I wouldn't."
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