Aston Villa manager Steven Gerrard is still wanting to secure the services of Philippe Coutinho on a permanent basis this summer.
This is according to the transfer insider Dean Jones who has been speaking on the latest Touchline Talk show to discuss the Brazilian’s future.
Do you want Villa to sign Coutinho this summer?
Yes
No
Coutinho joined Villa back in January on loan from the Spanish giants, Barcelona, as he reunited with his former teammate and now manager, Gerrard.
The Brazilian hit the ground running on his return to England with seven-goal involvements in his opening eight appearances in the Premier League.
However, the 29-year-old has been unable to find the back of the net nor provide an assist in his last six league appearances but it is believed Gerrard still has faith in the playmaker ahead of the new season:
“He’s already gone off the boil in recent weeks. And that’s where the big issue comes here. Like, if they’re going to spend £30m+ on a player, plus £100k to £200k a week in wages, he’s got to deliver regularly because they can’t afford to be making mistakes.”
“Gerrard, I’m told still wants him, despite the fact that his numbers haven’t been there in the last few games.”
TIF Thoughts on Jones’ comments…
This would certainly be a big gamble for Villa to take given it is believed a sum of around £34m would be needed to secure Coutinho’s signature from Barcelona.
Given the big-money summer signings of Danny Ings and Emi Buendia have failed to provide much inspiration yet, it is certainly a big decision to be made on Coutinho.
There have definitely been signs to suggest Villa should walk away from a deal for the Brazilian, but it would suggest they have little faith in Gerrard’s judgement if they were to do so.
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