Arsenal Enter Bidding Race to Sign Philippe Coutinho in the Summer

According to Mundo Deportivo (via The Express), Arsenal have ‘entered the bidding’ for Philippe Coutinho. He is currently on loan to Aston Villa from Barcelona. Coutinho has found his form back on his return to the Premier League. He has been very crucial in helping lift the moods at Villa Park with his consistent goals and assists.

The Brazilian has been reunited with his former Liverpool teammate Steven Gerrard, but this time he is playing under the Englishman. The former Rangers manager has expressed that he would bring Coutinho on a permanent deal without hesitation if he could control things. It would cost Aston Villa €40million to make his loan permanent.

Philippe Coutinho playing for Aston Villa, Philippe Coutinho, Arsenal — Image obtained via The Top Flight

The report suggests several other clubs have started taking an interest in the player. It also added that the Gunners have entered the race for the 29-year-old forward. Arsenal look keen on bringing Coutinho to Emirates and the player has not ruled out a move either. Although the player is leaving quite an impression at Villa, he would still be open to other opportunities that may come his way.

Why Are Clubs Interested In Signing Coutinho All Of A Sudden?

Philippe Coutinho was a key member of the Brazilian team at the 2018 FIFA World Cup. He possesses true Samba traits, and this style is easily integrated into practically any team nowadays. He plays on the left wing with the ability to cut inside and curl a shot in. He also possesses a decent passing range, which he can use to create opportunities from the left side.

Coutinho is also capable of playing as an attacking midfielder in the number 10 role and is well-known for his long-range goals. He has excellent shot power and precision, making him a dangerous player to let loose near the box. He can also finish chances from close range and within the box. Arsenal need to create more chances to become a title-challenging team and Coutinho can certainly provide that.

Philippe Coutinho celebrating for Aston Villa, Philippe Coutinho, Arsenal — Image obtained via Sports Illustrated

In one-on-one scenarios, Coutinho can easily beat opponents and carve out the time for himself to make a pass or take a lethal shot. If Philippe Coutinho joins forces with Martin Odegaard, Arsenal will have a deadly combination at hand to create plenty of chances. Moreover, when playing against teams that play in a low block, the Gunners will have the Brazilian forward as a means to score a long shot.

Why Arsenal Can Be A Perfect Fit For Philippe Coutinho?

Aston Villa can sign Coutinho on a permanent deal for £33.5 million. However, it remains to be seen if manager Steven Gerrard is able to retain him or whether Coutinho returns to Barcelona. Arsenal, on the other hand, are ready to seize the opportunity if Villa falters in their pursuit of the former Liverpool winger.

Martin Odegaard is Arsenal’s sole genuine number ten right now. In the event that Odegaard is injured or suspended, they will require a replacement. Arsenal boss Mikel Arteta was adamant that the team’s performance would not be harmed by Odegaard’s absence.

In reality, Coutinho might challenge Odegaard for a starting spot, and that could help the Norwegian raise his game in the long run. He will also give Arsenal much-needed squad depth going into the next season, when they will most likely be taking part in all the major competitions.

Another advantage of signing Coutinho is that he is a strong set-piece taker, which would improve Arsenal’s chances of getting a goal from a dead ball situation. Although many may question the transfer fee required to sign him, he still has a few years left in him and at 29 years of age, he can still hurt a lot of teams.

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