Aston Villa news: Pundit shares ‘perfect’ claim after Philippe Coutinho transfer update
Noel Whelan has hailed Philippe Coutinho for doing “exactly the right” thing by lowering his wage demands ahead of a possible permanent Aston Villa switch.
The former Leeds striker, speaking exclusively to Football Insider, claimed the 29-year-old is repaying the faith shown by the Villa boss, fans, and hierarchy.
According to Mundo Deportivo (26 March), Coutinho is willing to “do his part” to overcome the “obstacle” presented by his mammoth Barcelona salary in order to stay at Aston Villa.
As per The Telegraph (9 March), the Brazillian has one year to run on a deal worth £480,000-a-week.
Steven Gerrard has confirmed Villa have the option to make Coutinho’s loan deal permanent when it expires this summer.
Whelan hailed the former Liverpool star’s Midlands move as the “perfect scenario for all parties”.
“It was never in doubt,” he told Football Insider‘s Ewan Kingsbury.
“He’s come to the club for that relationship with Steven Gerrard, and it has paid dividends already.
“You can see that it’s a move that has really worked out. Sometimes being happy and enjoying your football is worth more than what you’re getting paid and your bank balance.
“Let’s not forget, he’ll still be getting paid a decent amount when he signs for Villa no matter what.
“He’s doing exactly the right thing by lowering those demands. He’s repaying the faith shown by Gerrard, the club, and the fans.
“It’s the perfect scenario for all parties.”
Coutinho has notched four goals and three assists in 10 games since joining Aston Villa in January.
The Midlands side sit ninth in the Premier League.
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