Whelan verdict on Aston Villa agreeing Coutinho deal after £125,000-a-week reveal – ‘it’s huge’
Noel Whelan has insisted Philippe Coutinho should be “fighting” for his Aston Villa future under Unai Emery amid rumours of a possible exit.
The former Leeds striker, speaking exclusively to Football Insider, suggested a sale could be in the best interests of Villa if the 30-year-old’s “attitude” will disrupt the dressing room.
According to Brazillian outlet Globo Esporte (17 December), Corinthians are interested in offering Coutinho a route to return to his homeland in January.
The report quotes the midfielder’s agent, Kia Joorabchian, who claimed he will “do his best” to facilitate the star’s move to Brazil.
Coutinho, who joined Aston Villa for a reported £17million in the summer after a successful loan spell, has failed to notch a goal or assist so far this season.
According to FBRef, the Midlands giants are paying the former Liverpool ace £125,000-a-week for the duration of his contract – which runs until 2026.
Whelan told Football Insider’s Ewan Kingsbury: “It’s going to be about the player.
“Where’s his head? Where does he see his future? Does he want to play for Aston Villa?
“If he doesn’t want to play for Villa under Emery, then I think they’ve got to let him go.
“That’s going to be the best thing for the club, the dressing room, and just the overall surroundings.
“But I’d like to think he’s got more fight and a better attitude. He should want to succeed at Aston Villa.
“It’s a huge club with a lot of history, and a new manager means a fresh start.
“Unai Emery will have been looking at Coutinho as very important to this side. I think he can be the difference for them, but it’s going to be up to him.”
In other news, Football Insider updates as Aston Villa make move to sign La Liga star ahead of January window.