Philippe Coutinho’s future may have just been decided amid transfer speculation

The latest on Philippe Coutinho’s future at Aston Villa amid transfer links to Turkish Super Lig side Galatasaray.
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Aston Villa may have just been handed a boost in their hopes of keeping hold of Brazilian superstar Philippe Coutinho. Turkish giants Galatasaray, who were linked with a shock transfer, have agreed a deal to sign a different midfielder, meaning Coutinho may no longer be needed.

The Super Lig outfit have reportedly advanced with a move for AS Roma playmaker Nicolo Zaniolo, with the Italian closing in on a €20 million switch. Having been publicly criticised by Roma boss Jose Mourinho, it seemed Zaniolo’s days were numbered and a push was made for a deadline day deal - but nothing came to fruition.

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Villa’s Premier League rivals Tottenham Hotspur and AFC Bournemouth were among those close to bringing in Zaniolo. The Cherries had quite the saga with the 23-year-old as they were at first rejected but then the player reversed his decision on deadline day. By then, however, Bournemouth had already spent their funds.

As the Turkish transfer window doesn’t end until February 8, it has allowed Zaniolo to complete a belated departure from the Italian capital. Fabrizio Romano reports a permanent transfer has been agreed, with Galatasaray taking the player until June 2027. Medical tests have already been scheduled.

There has been plenty of speculation linking Coutinho with a move away from Aston Villa, but he himself has said he wants to stay.There has been plenty of speculation linking Coutinho with a move away from Aston Villa, but he himself has said he wants to stay.
There has been plenty of speculation linking Coutinho with a move away from Aston Villa, but he himself has said he wants to stay.

According to a report in The Sun last week, Coutinho had been reportedly ‘offered a quick exit’ to Turkey. It has now emerged, however, that the 30-year-old has reaffirmed he wants to stay at Villa Park at least until the end of the season. Galatasaray proceeding with signing Zaniolo all but confirms he will be sticking around.

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