Aston Villa in talks with Barcelona over Philippe Coutinho

Journalist Matteo Moretto has reported on Twitter that Aston Villa are closing in on the signing of Philippe Coutinho from Barcelona. The journalist has claimed that Villa and Barcelona have negotiated a loan deal until the end of the season, adding that it will be done soon.

Coutinho muy cerca de volver a la Premier, Barça y Aston Villa negocian una cesión hasta junio. Confirmado lo que salió en estos minutos. Sí, puede concretizarse pronto.

— Matteo Moretto (@MatteMoretto) January 5, 2022

Coutinho has been on the books of Barcelona since 2018 when he joined from Liverpool. The 29-year-old Brazil international attacking midfielder had a loan spell at Bayern Munich in 2019-20 and is now back at the Catalan giants. Coutinho has made five starts and seven substitute appearances in La Liga so far this season, scoring two goals in the process.

Villa manager Steven Gerrard played with Coutinho at Liverpool. Things have not worked out for the 29-year-old at Barcelona, but there is no doubt over the quality of the Brazilian, who can also operate as a winger. Coutinho would be a great signing for the Villans, especially on a loan deal.