Aston Villa complete signing of Barcelona midfielder Philippe Coutinho

Steven Gerrard’s first signing is a familiar face
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Aston Villa have completed the signing of Barcelona midfielder and former Liverpool favourite Philippe Coutinho on a six-month-loan deal with an option to buy upon it’s expiry.

The 29-year-old Brazilian played alongside Villa boss Steven Gerrard during his time at Anfield and that is believed to have been a key factor in Coutinho’s decision to join the claret & blue.

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At a glance: 5 key points

  • Philippe Coutinho has signed for Aston Villa on a six-month-loan deal
  • The 29-year-old is the first signing of the Steven Gerrard era at Villa Park
  • Gerrard and Coutinho played alongside each other at Liverpool and this is said to have played a big factor in the latter’s decision
  • The Brazilian scored 54 goals in 201 appearances last time he played in England
  • Coutinho’s loan deal has an ‘option to buy’ in it upon it’s expiry

What’s been said

Aston Villa manager Steven Gerrard:

“Sixty three caps for Brazil, a serial winner, played for Barcelona, was incredible at Liverpool.

“I can understand why a lot of supporters up and down the country are speaking about him. I don’t think you get a nickname as a Magician if you’re not a special footballer.

“He’s someone I’ve got an incredible amount of respect for.

“He won two league titles for Barcelona, he won two Copa del Reys. If you go and have a look at his Wiki page, you’ll see a serial winner wherever he’s been.

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“I’ve got nothing but positive things to say about the player. He’s a friend of mine.”

We’ll bring you more reaction from Steven Gerrard, the Villa board and more as we have it.

Happy, Villa fans?

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