Aston Villa player ‘already starting to explore’ options for exit – Finances will be key

Philippe Coutinho and his entourage are ‘already starting to explore’ options for an Aston Villa exit, report InterLive. 

When the Brazilian arrived from Barcelona on loan he managed to impress. His return to English football was a successful one, Aston Villa used their purchase clause, and everyone was set to live happily ever after.

Unfortunately, that hasn’t turned out to be the case. Coutinho hasn’t had a good season and the hope which surrounded the permanent deal is starting to fade.

InterLive report it would be no surprise if an approach was made to Inter Milan, where Coutinho has played before. There’s some optimism around that, but it’s stated finances could be difficult.

According to the report, Aston Villa wouldn’t be prepared to lose much of the €20m they’ve paid, and Inter can’t cover the player’s wages at their current level.

Therefore, it’s explained a loan deal would be the best option for the Serie A side. However, the assumption there is that Aston Villa would continue to pay a chunk of the salary, and that doesn’t sound attractive for them.

Regardless of Inter’s potential attempts, if Unai Emery doesn’t have faith in Coutinho then it’s best a solution is found which gets his wages off the Villa books.