LAGOS, Nigeria (VOICE OF NAIJA) – Philippe Coutinho is on the verge of leaving Aston Villa, with Qatari side Al-Duhail, closing in on a loan deal for the Brazilian.
According to Fabrizio Romano, Al-Duhail is currently in negotiations with Villa to finalize the transfer of the ex-Liverpool player.
A loan agreement is close to being reached, with Al-Duhail prepared to cover his entire salary.
Coutinho has already reached a personal agreement with the club, turning down offers from Turkish giants Besiktas and La Liga’s Real Betis.
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The 31-year-old has fallen down the pecking order under manager Unai Emery at Villa Park, following a season in which he struggled with form and injuries, managing only one goal in 22 games.
It’s worth noting that Barcelona holds a 50% sell-on clause, but it’s unlikely to come into play as this deal is a loan rather than a permanent transfer.
Coutinho is expected to depart before Emery’s team return to action on 16 September for a Premier League clash against Crystal Palace at home.