Liverpool stance on stunning Coutinho return as Barcelona could tear up Villa deal
Philippe Coutinho is set to leave Barcelona permanently this summer, with reports suggesting there will be no shortage of suitors for his signature.
Aston Villa are currently top after the Brazilian joined the club on loan from the La Liga giants in January. Villa also have the option of buying the playmaker at the end of the season for an estimated fee of £33million.
However, Arsenal and Tottenham Hotspur have also been mentioned as possible destinations for Coutinho to play the last years he has at the top of his game, as he turns 30 before the start of next season. Reports also suggest his former employers at Liverpool are “open” to his return to Anfield.
Coutinho has been a revelation at Villa Park, scoring four goals and assisting three in his 10 appearances so far. Coutinho has, however, been a bit quiet in Villa’s recent games with West Ham and Arsenal, but head coach Steven Gerrard – who is desperate to sign his former team-mate – said: “He’s human. Sometimes he’s been exceptional.”
The 29-year-old has also reported that he is enjoying life at Villa. Speaking to Brazilian TV, Coutinho said: “I’ve changed clubs and I’ve been very well received by all the players, staff and fans. So I’m in an amazing place right now. and I’m very happy to be here.”
But Villa know that if Coutinho continues to attract attention by the end of the season and his form improves further, they will not be alone in the race to sign him. Although he joined Barcelona for £142m just over four years ago from Liverpool, his £33m price tag might be a snap considering the quality he is. has already shown in the Premier League.
And according to Spanish outlet SPORT, Villa could even sign Coutinho for less than their £33million deal. The La Liga giants are determined to get rid of the player to lighten their wage bill this summer.
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