Aston Villa have agreed on a loan deal for Barcelona’s Philippe Coutinho transfer to the midlands. The former Red will be reunited with his former captain, who, this time, will manage him instead of captaining him.
Having played with Coutinho and almost having won the title, Gerrard will know how to get the best out of him. Would Coutinho have moved to Villa if it wasn’t for Gerrard?
It is hard to make a case for it, and there is no doubt the pulling power of Gerrard was critical, but also the fact that Stevie G will let him play where he wants. Further forward, menacing a defence where he can cause havoc.
The Coutinho transfer, which is subject to a medical and a work permit being granted, includes an option to buy the 29-year-old for £33m at the end of the season. Which is an incredible value considering he left Liverpool for Barcelona for £142m in 2018.
The Coutinho transfer is done
Philippe Coutinho’s set to join Aston Villa on loan from Barcelona, done deal and here-we-go! Agreement completed after direct contact today morning 🇧🇷🤝 #AVFC
Loan until end of the season. Aston Villa will pay main part of the salary. Announcement today as per @tjuanmarti. #FCB pic.twitter.com/O4a93ftszY
— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) January 7, 2022
A special talent
Gerrard, who described his former team-mate as “a special talent” on Thursday, and Coutinho were key parts of the Liverpool side who fell just short of winning the Premier League title in 2014.
There have been reports from Spain that he is not the same player that left Liverpool in 2018, however, his stats prove otherwise. When he has had a run of games he has shown plenty of glimpses of his former spirit and mercurial talent.
Gerrard will provide him with ammunition to reinvigorate his confidence and if he stays fit until the end of the season, he will make a major impact on the Villa squad and the results.
Former Crystal Palace striker Clinton Morrison told BBC Radio 5 Live’s Football Daily. “The two of them have got a relationship and friendship and I think it will be fine.
“It is a really good signing. Gerrard is there and he played with Coutinho. He knows his ability and I think it is a brilliant move for Coutinho and also Aston Villa.
“He would take them to the next level. He’s a fantastic footballer and we haven’t seen the best of him since he left Liverpool. He’s 29 years of age and still has a lot to offer.”
The deal makes so much sense, in a global pandemic Villa have got a potentially top 10 player on a trial with a £33m option to buy.
This is a real coup for Aston Villa and with Coutinho’s experience in the league, he will hit the ground running.
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