Steven Gerrard says no decision made on Coutinho’s permanent transfer

Aston Villa manager Steven Gerrard has insisted the club are in no rush to seal a permanent move for Philippe Coutinho this summer.

The Brazilian playmaker arrived at Villa Park from Barcelona on loan in January, reuniting with his former Liverpool teammate and current Villa manager, Gerrard.

Italian journalist Fabrizio Romano claims that Gerrard wants to keep the 29-year-old beyond this summer, and he has a buyout clause of €40 million.

Coutinho has revived his form after netting three goals and three assists in seven appearances in the Premier League.

The former Reds star also produced a masterclass in the 4-0 win against Southampton over the weekend, scoring a goal and providing an assist.

Coutinho’s string of impressive displays has made Villa fans yearn for his permanent transfer when his loan spell expires this season. However, Gerrard told Sky Sports that nothing has been decided yet.

“When he’s comfortable, he’s happy and he’s enjoying his football, we all know we’re dealing with a world-class talent,” he said.

“For me, it doesn’t make sense to make any decisions now or say anything else on this – we just need to keep enjoying him and keep him healthy from now until the end of the season.”

Coutinho would have to take a significant cut to his £480,000-per-week wages if he is to make his loan move permanent.

Barca are keen to reduce their salary bill, but Villa are unlikely to break their wage structure for a player who celebrates his 30th birthday in June.