Journalist Pete O’Rourke has claimed that Newcastle United have set aside some funds to go all out for a ‘marquee signing’ amid reports they could be interested in buying Philippe Coutinho this summer.
Coutinho joined Aston Villa on loan in January from Barcelona, with a clause in the deal that Villa will have to pay the Catalan giants £33m to make it permanent in the summer. And with the Brazilian’s seven goal contributions in 12 Premier League games, this deal looks like a bargain.
Newcastle United have a newfound wealth and have been linked with a new haul of players because of this. Coutinho is the latest to be linked with a move to St James’ Park after his impressive performances this term back in the Premier League with Villa.
Amid reports that Newcastle are keeping tabs on Coutinho, O’Rourke spoke to GiveMeSport and highlighted what he thinks the future holds for the Brazilian.
“It’s very hard to see him anywhere else in the Premier League right now, but Newcastle have a budget set aside for a marquee signing.
“Coutinho has loved his time at Villa Park. At the moment, his main focus is just to play and to be happy, and that’s happening at Aston Villa for him.”
TIF Thoughts on Pete O’Rourke’s comments…
Coutinho has been in great form since his arrival back in the Premier League, recording an average of 2.6 shots per game, a passing accuracy of 83% and a successful dribble rate of over 50%, as per SofaScore.
After Coutinho’s impressive form, he is likely to be on the radar of many European clubs, and if a club with European football comes in for him, it may be difficult for him to opt against that move and decide to either stay at Aston Villa or make the switch to Newcastle. His form is something that Glen Johnson knew would be rediscovered in the Premier League as he labelled him as an ‘unbelievable talent‘ earlier on this year.
However, the Brazilian may decide to stay at Villa where he is enjoying his football under the management of former teammate Steven Gerrard.