Journalist Dean Jones believes West Ham would need to spend big to lure Aston Villa star Philippe Coutinho to London, GiveMeSport report.
The Lowdown: West Ham links
Once labelled as ‘phenomenal’ by Roberto Firmino, it is no surprise Coutinho has been a regular under Steven Gerrard since joining on loan in January.
He’s contributed to four Premier League goals in six appearances, starting the last five.
Where will Coutinho be playing next season?
Aston Villa
West Ham
Other
Villa have the option to make a loan move from Barcelona permanent in the summer, however, West Ham are now thought to be keen on the 29-year-old ahead of the 2022/23 campaign.
The Latest: Jones’ comments
Talking to GiveMeSport, Jones had this to say on the Brazilian, admitting he is unsure where he will end up next season and believes the Hammers would need to pay ‘a lot of money’ for the attacking midfielder in the summer.
“I don’t know where I see Coutinho right now. I think West Ham will be mindful of what they’re signing in Coutinho, if they were to go down that path, because it would take a lot of money.”
The Verdict: In Villa’s hands…
Coutinho has already started as many league games for Villa as he did for Barcelona this season, with Gerrard making the player a key man once again.
On that basis, you’d like to think that Coutinho will be open to making his move in the Midlands permanent over the coming months. However, it doesn’t exactly come as a shock to see other clubs being linked with Coutinho following his eye-catching displays in a Villa shirt against Manchester United and Leeds.
Villa appear to be in pole position for a permanent move, though, so hopefully, the Hammers don’t persuade Coutinho over moving to London.
In other news: Gerrard is reportedly ready to sell this Aston Villa stalwart.
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