According to Mundo Deportivo, Barcelona expect to see Philippe Coutinho join Aston Villa either today or tomorrow as a deal edges closer.
What’s the story?
Well, this is significant news for Aston Villa.
It’s not every day that a £142m player ends up on Aston Villa’s radar, although Steven Gerrard is close to a reunion with his ex-teammate.
Mundo Deportivo believe Barcelona and the Villans are currently finalising the details of the transfer, including salary arrangements.
Coutinho has agreed to join Aston Villa, as he aims to be a part of Tite’s squad for the World Cup in December.
Aston Villa are not intending to pay the 29-year-old’s salary in full, and are hoping to split his rumoured £145,000-a-week wages with Barcelona.
So far this season, Coutinho has made just five starts in La Liga, scoring two goals in Spain’s top-flight.
Aston Villa face potential issue with Philippe Coutinho deal
While the majority of Mundo Deportivo‘s report is positive, there is one thing that may concern Aston Villa fans.
The Spanish news outlet believe Barcelona would like the Villans to agree to an obligation to buy Coutinho once the season is over.
However, Aston Villa are not interested in being tied to such a commitment, and would prefer to see how Coutinho performs before purchasing him outright.
That could throw a spanner in the works, although Gerrard has the upper hand in terms of finances.
Barcelona are struggling financially, and Mundo Deportivo add that, in spite of the Spaniards wanting Gerrard to buy Coutinho, they are more focused on removing him from the wage bill right now.
Therefore, all should hopefully run smoothly across the next 48 hours.
Keep an eye on this saga, as it sounds like Gerrard is very close to making his first signing in charge of Aston Villa.
Receive exclusive football transfer news and updates twice a week to your mailbox
