Philippe Coutinho: Pundit makes ‘ridiculous’ Aston Villa transfer claim after £33.7m reveal
Signing Philippe Coutinho permanently for £33.7million would be an “absolute steal” for Aston Villa, according to Noel Whelan.
The former Leeds striker, speaking exclusively to Football Insider, claimed it would be “ridiculous” if the Villans chose not to trigger their purchase clause for the 29-year-old.
An Aston Villa source told Football Insider on Thursday (10 February) the club have a £33.7million option to buy Coutinho after signing him on loan last month.
It is understood Steven Gerrard will have no hesitation in telling the board to trigger the deal after pushing for his capture.
Whelan urged Villa chiefs to green-light the move after his early form at Villa Park.
Discussing Villa triggering the purchase clause, Whelan told Football Insider’s Russell Edge: “I think it’d be ridiculous if they didn’t, the way he’s started his career at Aston Villa.
“When you think about £33.7million, it’s an absolute steal, isn’t it? Considering what he went for, what can do, what he’s proven he can do right now, more to the point.
“He’s showing that desire, he’s showing that intent and showing that quality that he’s been brought in for. That little magician, as they call him.
“He’s picking the right passes and he’s been involved in assists and goals since he came to the club. He has really hit the ground running.
“I don’t think anyone could have envisaged he would adapt to the Premier League as quickly as he as.”
Coutinho has scored twice and contributed two assists in four appearances for Villa to date.
His contract at Barcelona runs until the summer of 2023.
In other news, Aston Villa are working on an “unbelievable” £50m summer transfer.