Newcastle to battle Aston Villa for Philippe Coutinho?

Newcastle United have shown an interest in signing on-loan Aston Villa midfielder Philippe Coutinho in the summer transfer window, according to a report.

The 29-year-old has been on loan at Villa Park from Barcelona since January, with the West Midlands side having an option to sign the Brazilian on a permanent basis at the end of the season.

Despite there being an agreed fee for around €40m (£34.2m), Steven Gerrard's side are reportedly discussing a cut-price figure for the former Liverpool man.

However, fellow Premier League side Newcastle are also interested in acquiring Coutinho at the end of the season, according to a report from Goal.

The report suggests that the Magpies are willing to pay Barcelona's original €40m (£34.2m) asking price, which may well affect Villa's outlook on the situation if it continues.

Eddie Howe's side look set for a busy transfer window at the end of the 2021-22 season, with it being the club's first summer window under their new owners.

Meanwhile, Coutinho has netted four goals and contributed three assists in 15 Premier League appearances since making the loan move to Villa in January.