Phillipe Coutinho: Aston Villa completes sensational Barcelona swoop

Aston Villa has finalized Philippe Coutinho’s sensational loan from Barcelona.

In what will be one of the most exciting moves in the entire window, the Brazilian star has agreed to return to the Premier League until the end of the season.

The deal, which Villa said on Friday is subject to completion of a medical examination and obtaining a work permit, includes a purchase option and sees Coutinho reunite with former Liverpool teammate Steve Gerrard.

Move to Villa sees Coutinho joining former Liverpool teammate Steven Gerrard

It’s a remarkable move for Gerrard, who was a key factor in Coutinho’s move to Villa Park

Indeed, Villa boss Gerrard was the key factor in Coutinho’s decision to sign for Villa given his close relationship with the Anfield legend.

Following talks with Gerrard, attacking midfielder Coutinho was completely convinced that a move to Villa Park was the right decision for him.

And there is massive confidence in Villa that Coutinho will hit the ground to become one of the stars in the second half of the season.

Sportsmail revealed Villa’s efforts to sign Coutinho on Wednesday afternoon and the deal has evolved rapidly since then.

A number of Premier League and European clubs were keen on Coutinho, but Gerrard’s influence was key to choosing the 29-year-old Villa.

There were a number of clubs across Europe keen to sign Coutinho in January

Coutinho has played 16 times for Barcelona so far this season, scoring two goals

Villa is 13th in the Premier League but has made a promising start since Gerrard took over

Villa is 13th in the Premier League table but has made a promising start to life under Gerrard, who replaced Dean Smith as manager in November.

Coutinho has played 16 times for Barcelona so far this season, with two goals to his name.

His departure from Camp Nou will cut payrolls and help Xavi save Ferran Torres after arriving from Manchester City.

Villa is in action against Manchester United in the FA Cup this weekend and returns to the Premier League on January 15, also against United.

Barcelona signed Coutinho for £ 145million in January 2018 from Liverpool. Coutinho spent five years at Anfield, with Brendan Rodgers signing him from Inter Milan in the winter transfer window in 2013.