Aston Villa face ‘problem’ behind-the-scenes after Coutinho transfer update – pundit
Kevin Phillips has warned breaking the wage structure to sign Philippe Coutinho could “upset the dressing room” at Aston Villa.
The former Claret and Blue striker, speaking exclusively to Football Insider, claimed the 29-year-old’s wage demands could prove to be a “problem” for the Midlands side.
Speaking to Amazon Prime (10 March) on Thursday, Gerrard revealed a permanent move for Coutinho could prove “more complicated than people think”.
The Villa boss did confirm the club have the option to make the transfer permanent this summer.
The Telegraph claim (9 March) Coutinho faces having to take a significant cut to his £480,000-a-week wages if he is to join Aston Villa permanently.
Phillips insisted Gerrard will be desperate to sign the “incredible” midfielder – no matter what the cost.
“It really depends on the ambition at Aston Villa,” he told Football Insider‘s Ewan Kingsbury.
“Obviously, we know the owners of the club are very, very wealthy.
“I can see players going to the board after Coutinho comes in and saying: ‘I want that sort of money. If he’s on it, I want it.’
“It could upset the dressing room. That’s the only problem I can see with that deal.
“From Steven Gerrard’s point of view, the finances won’t even enter his head – he’ll want the deal done. We’ve seen what he can still do since he’s come in, he’s been incredible.
“It’ll be interesting to see if they can work it out in the summer.”
The Brazilian has dazzled since joining on loan from Barcelona in January.
The former Liverpool star has notched four goals and three assists in eight league games for the Villains.
In other news, ex-manager tips Villa to complete “brilliant” £21million signing this summer.