Barcelona on the verge of selling Philippe Coutinho

Philippe Coutinho set to make loan to Aston Villa permanent

The future of Philippe Coutinho is nearly resolved as the former Barcelona forward is close to extending his stay with Aston Villa.

According to Mundo Deportivo, the Catalan side is negotiating with Villa on a permanent deal for the Brazilian that would see Barcelona net close to €20 million on a transfer fee, though Villa’s first offer was for €14 million.

The most expensive transfer in Barcelona history is going to leave for a fraction of what he initially cost. His performances with the Blaugrana left much to be desired and now four years later, his run has come to an end.

Villa acquired the Brazilian on loan during the January transfer window with a €40 million purchase option. Coutinho hit the ground running, scoring in his first couple of games. But he’s been mired in a goal-scoring and assist drought for a while. Hence, the low offer made by Villa.

Barcelona were pessimistic Villa would end up paying the stipulated fee on the clause and so it came to pass. Getting Coutinho off the wage bill appears to be good enough and the transfer fee is simply icing on the cake for the Catalans.

A move always looked likely as he has the confidence of his former teammate, now manager, Steven Gerrard.

However, Villa are not the only side interested in Coutinho.

According to Goal, Newcastle United are also interested in his services and, unlike Villa, would be willing to pay the €40 million fee.

Newcastle may throw a wrench in Villa’s plan but it will also come down to Barcelona and Coutinho himself on the final decision. At this point, all Barcelona want is to move on from the Brazilian.

While Coutinho’s performances have been on the decline, a change of scenery is what he needs and with Gerrard as manager, he’s certain to get plenty of opportunities with Villa.