Steven Gerrard confirms Aston Villa's interest in Coutinho signing

When asked to address Aston Villa’s links with a loan move for Barcelona midfielder Philippe Coutinho, Steven Gerrard said: “Philippe Coutinho is a fantastic player.

“I appreciate that his name is linked with our club, but there are five other teams in the Premier League and other clubs in Europe that also dream about him.

“I understand this [interest] because we are speaking about a world-class player. To share a dressing room with him was an absolute pleasure.”

Coutinho is reportedly open to leaving Camp Nou after realizing that he won’t be getting regular playing time under Xavi Hernandez.

While Villa are close to a loan move, Newcastle United are also interested in making the Brazilian a marquee signing in January.

Source: Tjuanmarti @ Twitter