90min claim that Aston Villa are in talks with Barcelona over a permanent deal for on-loan midfielder Philippe Coutinho, who was said to be on the radar of Tottenham.
Coutinho joined Villa on a short-term move until the end of the season with a reported option-to-buy clause worth up to £33 million (Sky Sports).
The 29-year-old has been in excellent form under Steven Gerrard, notching four goals and three assists in 10 appearances for the club (Transfermarkt).
And 90min claims Villa have been so impressed with Coutinho that negotiations are already underway with his parent club about signing him permanently this summer.
The report claims that despite the complexities involved in a deal – including the former Liverpool man taking a pay cut – the Midlands outfit are confident in completing a transfer.
A deal materialising would strike a blow to Tottenham, who were credited with interest in the midfielder during the January transfer window (El Nacional).
Spanish outlet Sport recently also reported that Antonio Conte’s side could shape up a move to rival Villa for Coutinho’s signature, while Arsenal remained on the periphery.
Spurs Web Opinion
Coutinho has been in excellent form for Villa and has really hit the ground running on his return to the Premier League.
He would have been a useful option for Spurs considering they have lacked creativity from midfield, but for whatever reason, they didn’t elect to move for him.
It may have been his hefty wages and the fact that he wasn’t in the best form of his career at the time, but if he continues to do well for Villa then he could be an option to look at this summer.
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