Douglas Luiz’s move to Man United could cause an awkward reunion with player he mocked in 2024

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During negotiations to offload Jadon Sancho to Juventus, an interesting option has come up for Manchester United.

Juventus are open to including Douglas Luiz as part of a swap deal for Sancho, which could suit Ineos as they look to reshape the club’s midfield this summer.

Reports indicate that Ruben Amorim has prioritised signing an athletic midfielder this window, and Luiz fits the bill. United have been keen on him for some time, even trying to bring him in during his Aston Villa days.

But while Luiz impressed in the Premier League, some United fans may remember him more for a post-goal celebration than his actual performances.

Douglas Luiz sparked debate on social media after his controversial celebration against Man United

Luiz has always been a key figure at Aston Villa, but – when it comes to Man United fans – he caught their attention more for an incident at Villa Park than for his performances.

In the Premier League 2023/24, the Brazilian equalised just after halftime, and his reaction was to kneel down and shake his shoulders directly in front of Andre Onana, in what appeared to be a pointed celebration.

Many fans saw his celebration as mocking Onana, which put him under fire – especially after the Red Devils’ 2-1 victory, sealed by a late Scott McTominay goal.

When asked about it post-match, then-manager Erik ten Hag 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 expected to remain at Old Trafford this season, Luiz’s arrival could make for an interesting first day back at training.

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What has Douglas Luiz said about his post-goal reaction?

Luiz later explained his celebration, which had sparked debate. He said that the gesture was inspired by carnival season back home in Brazil, and wasn’t meant as a direct dig at Onana.

“I’m good, thanks. It’s just Carnaval time in Brazil,” the midfielder wrote on X (formerly Twitter).

Having already added Matheus Cunha to the squad, Manchester United could soon pair him with another Brazilian international if Luiz completes his move from Turin.