Aston Villa midfielder Douglas Luiz has reportedly emerged as a January transfer target for Tottenham Hotspur.

While the Brazil international has been a key player during Villa's progression in recent years, the 23-year-old has just 17 months remaining on his contract.

As it stands, discussions over fresh terms do not appear to be imminent, naturally resulting in other clubs taking an interest in the situation.

Arsenal were linked with Luiz earlier this week and according to the Daily Mail, their North London rivals may be ready to act as direct competition.

The report suggests that Spurs are "panicking" having missed out on other targets this month, leading to club officials considering a £32m bid for Luiz before Monday's transfer deadline.

Much could depend on whether Villa are successful with any offer for Juventus midfielder Rodrigo Bentancur, a player who is also said to have admirers in Spurs. body check tags ::