Arsenal ‘ready to make summer transfer move’ for Philippe Coutinho from Barcelona after star’s Aston Villa loan

ARSENAL are reportedly plotting a summer swoop to sign Philippe Coutinho.

The attacker has struggled with life at Barcelona ever since he left Liverpool for the Nou Camp back in 2018.

That led to him returning to the Premier League in January to join ex team-mate Steven Gerrard at Aston Villa on loan for the rest of the campaign.

The 29-year-old has impressed so far back in England.

And that could lead to Villa deciding to turn the deal into a permanent arrangement by paying Barcelona £33.57 million for the Brazilian.

However, now claims that Arsenal are readying a move.

The Spanish publication says that Mikel Arteta is looking into the possibility of bringing the South American to the Emirates.

And the chances of Arsenal signing him were boosted on Saturday as they claimed a 1-0 win over Villa to bolster their hopes of qualifying for next season’s Champions League.

Coutinho, who started against the Gunners, has made ten appearances for Gerrard’s side so far.

He has scored four goals and produced three assists in those outings as he gradually looks to be getting back to his top form.

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Speaking earlier this month about the possibility of signing Coutinho permanently, Gerrard said: “For me it doesn’t make any sense to make any decisions now.

“When he’s physically in the right place, when he’s comfortable and happy and enjoying his football, we all know we’re dealing with a world-class talent.

“We just need to keep enjoying him, to keep him healthy from now until the end of the season and I’m sure he’ll help us.

“To watch him and work with him and see him get back to his top form and enjoy his football again is a pleasure.”