Aston Villa 'rejected Corinthians bid for Philippe Coutinho'

Aston Villa have allegedly rejected an offer from Corinthians for Philippe Coutinho.

The playmaker has been representing Villa since the start of 2022, making a total of 41 appearances in all competitions.

However, the Brazil international has failed to build on a bright opening with the club, only chipping in with one goal in 916 minutes of football during 2022-23.

That strike came as recently as last weekend, the 30-year-old capping off a fine team move with a smart low finish into the bottom corner from 16 yards against Arsenal.

Coutinho was substituted shortly after the Gunners' equaliser in the 61st minute, and he may have done enough to retain his spot in the team for the next fixture with Everton.

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Nevertheless, it appears that Coutinho was recently presented with the opportunity to leave Villa Park for a return to his homeland.

On the back of their fourth-placed finish in 2022, Corinthians have been bidding to strengthen their squad for the next campaign, which begins in April.

Coutinho was seemingly on their list of potential targets, a switch which the player may have welcomed having not played in Brazil since 2010.

Despite their interest, however, Corinthians' football director Roberto de Andrade has revealed that Villa were not interested in negotiating a transfer.

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As quoted by Globo Esporte, De Andrade said: "Coutinho is a player who doesn't come to Brazil. The club [Aston Villa] will not release him. So, there is nothing."

The report alleges that Villa would have entertained permanent bids, but Corinthians are said to have preferred a loan agreement.

Villa paid £17m for Coutinho's signature when they pushed through a deal for the then-Barcelona player during the summer transfer window.

The ex-Liverpool star still has just under three-and-a-half years remaining on his contract.