Official: Philippe Coutinho joins Aston Villa on loan from Barcelona

After months of working on departures, Barcelona have finally landed the big fish, with Philippe Coutinho moving to Aston Villa on loan. The agreement is subject to the player completing a medical and receiving a work permit.

FC Barcelona and @AVFCOfficial have reached an agreement for the loan of the player Philippe Coutinho until the end of the season

— FC Barcelona (@FCBarcelona) January 7, 2022

Coutinho joins on a six-month loan with a purchase option. The clubs will share the burden of his wages, and while the ratio is unknown, it is to be believed that the Villa are paying most of his salary.

The Brazilian has been linked with an exit for a while now, with several Premier League clubs interested in his signature. The likes of Arsenal, Tottenham Hotspur, and Everton were leading the race, but Steven Gerrard’s excellent personal relationship helped complete the move to Birmingham.

This move is in the best interest of all parties. Coutinho is looking for minutes before the World Cup, while Barcelona are desperately trying to reduce their wage bill. For Aston Villa, it is an attacking reinforcement as the club sits 13th in the league.