Aston Villa could reportedly end up signing Philippe Coutinho for less than the £33million fee they agreed last month.
With Barcelona still being crippled by financial problems, and seeking to find money to cover the outgoings on transfers and contracts for Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang, Adama Traore and Ferran Torres last month, they are desperate to get Coutinho off the books completely as new boss Xavi continues his overhaul.
The Brazilian has managed to return to form following his return to the Premier League, with the former Liverpool star scoring two goals and contributing two assists.
Coutinho scored and laid on two goals for young star Jacob Ramsey in Wednesday's 3-3 draw with Leeds United at Villa Park, and his manager Steven Gerrard was delighted the display of his old Liverpool teammate.
“It was vintage Philippe Coutinho," he told BT Sport after the match.
“He seems happy, we have given the stage to go and enjoy his football again.
“His vision and his awareness, if you don’t love watching that you should stop watching football.”
Given his performances so far then it looks likely that Villa will seek to make his move permanent in the summer, but they could end up signing him for a lower fee than they previously anticipated.
That's according to Birmingham Live, who state that the £33million fee isn't set in stone, and so Villa have room to negotiate with Barca should they wish to wrap up the deal, with the Catalan club prepared to rip up the initial agreement in order to get rid of him.
Coutinho will still have one year left on his Barcelona contract at the end of this season though, and it remains to be seen whether or not he will accept what is sure to be a significant reduction to his £380,000 a week salary.
The Brazilian does seem happy at Villa Park though, and after joining he spoke about how much he wanted to play under Gerrard.
"He has always been my idol, we had a great time together playing. It is a great pleasure to be coached by him now and I hope to repay that on the pitch," he said.
"We spoke for many days since the New Year and he told me everything about the club and the ambitions. It was clear for me I want to be with him.
“I am really excited.
"For sure it will be a really good experience. The last four years have been with some ups and downs as life is.
"I keep the positive things. I have won some league titles and cups and also the Champions League was really nice. But I miss too much the Premier League and the atmosphere of the games. I am looking forward to the new journey."
