On Wednesday, various reports coming out of Spain explained Aston Villa are in talks with Barcelona for the transfer of Philippe Coutinho. It was also stated the English side are ‘in the lead’ and the attacking midfielder has given the ‘go-ahead’ to a move to Villa Park.
Sport now detail the reasons why the 29-year-old has said ‘yes’ to joining the English club in the winter market.
The report also claims Xavi Hernández’s side and Villa are in ‘very advanced’ talks for the player’s temporary move.
Now it remains to be defined whether there will be a mandatory purchase clause attached to the deal. Despite that, the report says it is the best possible option for both the La Liga club and the former Liverpool star.
Aston Villa are 13th in the table and are not challenging for any trophies. A move there could be seen a step backwards, but Coutinho ‘does not see it that way’.
At Villa Park, the player will find Steven Gerrard, his former Liverpool teammate, who he ‘absolutely trusts’. The ex-Rangers manager knows the South American and his qualities very well, and is aware the latter can make a difference in Birmingham.
Sport explain the Gerrard factor has been decisive for Coutinho to say ‘yes’ to Villa and he is now waiting for the two clubs to reach an agreement.
Coutinho’s compatriot Douglas Luiz is already at the English club. The former ‘already has information’ from the midfielder, on what sort of dressing room he will find at Villa Park.
Luiz has received a call up from Brazil manager Tite when playing for the Premier League side. Coutinho believes a move to Villa could also improve his chances of representing Seleção at the 2022 World Cup.
