Newcastle transfer news: Magpies ready to move for Coutinho this summer

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Newcastle United are reportedly ready to make a move for Philippe Coutinho this summer, if he does seal a permanent move to Aston Villa.

According to a report from SPORT, Barcelona and Villa agreed upon a buy option worth around £34 million.

Apparently though, Newcastle, through intermediaries, have already taken an interest in the player’s situation.

The club are said to be in a position to ‘pay a million’ to Coutinho to convince him to move to St. James’ Park. Presumably, that refers to a signing-on bonus.

At Barca, they are clear that Villa are the priority. They have the player on loan and have the option to buy.

But it’s stated that if Villa are not willing to trigger that buy option, then Newcastle could step in.

Coutinho has been a breath of fresh air for Villa since his move.

The Brazilian has already scored four goals in 10 Premier League appearances, and also provided a few assists.

Many wondered if he would be able to thrive again having not been in form for so long with Barca and Bayern Munich.

But Coutinho has silenced his critics, and is helping Villa to push for a top 10 finish.

Steven Gerrard said at the start of the month that Coutinho is ‘a world-class player’ when he’s in the mood (Daily Mail).

He appears to be relishing his new environment. And should he keep playing the way he is, then Villa will surely be looking to sign him permanently.

Coutinho would be a nice addition to Newcastle’s midfield, but it’s surely unlikely

Coutinho is showing he is far from finished.

He’s had a bad time in Spain with Barca. And his loan spell with Bayern didn’t prompt the renaissance he was hoping for.

But he seems to have found his mojo again back in the English top-flight. He does appear to be enjoying himself.

It’s hard to see why Villa wouldn’t want to sign him permanently.

They should be able to afford the deal. But Newcastle should just keep an eye on proceedings just in case it falls through.

Potentially, he could make an excellent addition to the Magpies’ midfield, which could then be an all-Brazilian affair with him, Bruno Guimaraes and Joelinton.