Philippe Coutinho’s future at Aston Villa remains uncertain as he nears the final year of his contract, with his limbo continuing following a loan spell at Brazilian club Vasco da Gama. The 32-year-old playmaker has not played for Villa since their 4-0 victory over Everton in August 2023, and it seems Vasco are keen to extend his loan despite a lackluster first season together.
Vasco has expressed interest in keeping Coutinho, who Villa signed for £17m, but there have been mixed reviews about his performance. Although his time at the club last year saw him score three goals in 18 appearances, Vasco struggled to integrate him with fellow signing Dimitri Payet, leading to disappointment. Nonetheless, Coutinho has shown “flashes of brilliance,” according to reports, keeping Vasco’s interest alive.
With his contract with Villa set to expire in 2026, Villa may seek to negotiate a deal rather than let the player leave on a free transfer. Vasco, who qualified for the Copa Sudamericana after finishing 10th in the Brazilian league last season, are keen to extend Coutinho’s loan, especially after he scored two goals in both the Copa do Brasil and Campeonato Carioca competitions this year.
Coutinho has expressed his desire to remain with Vasco, saying, “I’m at the club I love, where I want to be.” He added that Vasco shares the same ambition to fight for titles, aligning with his own aspirations.
With Villa likely exploring their options for Coutinho, a deal between the two clubs could offer the player an extended stay at Vasco, while Villa could potentially secure a financial return on their £17m investment.