Aston Villa could definitely consider a potential loan exit for Philippe Coutinho if the offer from Galatasaray was right for the Brazilian.
What’s the latest?
According to reports, there is interest coming from Turkey for Villa’s Brazilian playmaker but there are questions as to whether he would be open to the move.
Since the speculation arose, Galatasaray have now made a move for the Italian midfielder Nicolo Zaniolo from Roma for a deal believed to be worth in the region of £14.6m.
However, speaking to Football FanCast, journalist Pete O’Rourke has suggested the Premier League side would be open to offloading Coutinho if it was the right offer:
“It’d be an interesting one. If it was a big offer, I think it’s something Villa would definitely consider. He’s not really figuring in the plans of Unai Emery right now.
“I think his only start for Emery came in that FA Cup game against Stevenage. So he’s pretty well down the pecking order at Villa Park, but he is still one of the highest earners.
“So to save a bit of money, I think Villa would consider it if the offer was right from Galatasaray. But I think right now the player is not too interested in a move to Turkey, and there probably might have to be a decision made on Coutinho’s future in the summer.”
Not impressing Emery
Coutinho’s time at Villa has seemingly come to a standstill with the 30-year-old having only made six starts in the Premier League so far this term.
And what is even more damning is since Unai Emery joined the club, Coutinho is yet to make a single start in the English top flight.
Despite racking up 20 appearances across all competitions for Villa this season, the Brazilian has not been able to return either a goal or assist (via Transfermarkt).
However, when Villa signed him permanently in the summer, they awarded him with a seismic four-year deal which is not set to run out until 2026.
And given the 30-year-old is believed to be earning in the region of £125k per week, it is to little surprise that he would be interested in a move to Galatasaray.
So it could prove difficult for Villa to find Coutinho with a suitable exit plan but it is apparent the current situation at Villa Park is not one that is benefiting the club.
The Brazilian did impress last season under Steven Gerrard when he initially joined on loan after returning five goals and three assists int the Premier League.
But if Emery is unwilling to give Coutinho the opportunity to find his best form, then perhaps it is best if the two parties look for. resolution in the summer.
