Barcelona midfielder Philippe Coutinho has reportedly set his sights on a permanent move to current club Aston Villa, where he has been on loan since January.
The winger has had a positive impact on Steven Gerrard's side, having netted four goals and provided three assists in 10 Premier League appearances for Villa so far.
Coutinho is currently under contract at Camp Nou until 2023, but it is believed that the Spanish giants wish to sell the Brazilian international this summer, for a figure in the region of £40m.
According to Mundo Deportivo, the 29-year-old's salary will be a barrier for Villa, but after seemingly regaining his confidence on the pitch, Coutinho will be willing to take a pay cut to permanently be based at Villa Park.
Gerrard has made it clear that he wants the club to pursue the option to purchase Coutinho for £40m; although, they may have to fend off competition from fellow Premier League outfit Arsenal.
In total, Coutinho has scored 25 goals in 106 appearances for Barca, with his current loan move the second temporary spell he has had away from Catalonia.
Sammy Wynne
