While reports and columns around this time of year all need to be evaluated, the latest regarding Aston Villa's Philippe Coutinho can absolutely be believed. Currently on loan at Vasco da Gama, there is not too much of an expectation or reason to believe that the Brazilian will be making the return trip to play for Unai Emery any time soon.
The Athletic's Jacob Tanswell shared on X that Coutinho's current deal at Villa is set to expire and will not be renewed or revisited. Brasileiro Série A is getting into full swing, and the club the midfielder is on loan at has an interest in keeping him.
It is something that only makes sense for all parties. Any time Coutinho's name is brought up, most seem astonished to find out that he is technically still even with the club. Arriving at the time to join forces with Steven Gerrard, his old Liverpool teammate, the Brazilian has spent more time away from the club than what supporters would have liked for someone who cost around £17 million three years ago.
Small positive help for Aston Villa PSR situation
While PSR is a real aspect that Villa has to deal with, there are some who suggest that the situation is not nearly as dire as others are making it out to be. In order for that to be true, however, making sales with players such as Coutinho, who have been out of the picture anyway, will be what is required.
Even if the most valued and lucrative offer is accepted, one sale will not be enough for Villa. By combining multiple smaller amounts, such as the potential fee of Coutinho to Vasco da Gama, it will allow AVFC to approach the summer more or less as it would anyway. At a minimum, it will lessen the chance of needing to sell off multiple players that the club would not want to part ways with.