'Alarms set off' - Barcelona's transfer worry as Aston Villa's Philippe Coutinho uncertainty emerges

Aston Villa loanee Philippe Coutinho's form has dropped in the last five games for Steven Gerrard's side which has reportedly led to 'alarms' being set off at Barcelona regarding his future.

Coutinho, 29, hit the ground running in claret and blue after arriving on loan in January, as he opened his scoring account within minutes of making his debut against Manchester United to earn his new team a draw. With four goals and three assists in his first eight appearances for Villa, the option to secure the Brazilian on a permanent deal seemed like a no brainer at the time.

However, since his last goal against Leeds United on the 10th March, Coutinho has gone five games without recording a goal or assist in a Villa shirt and the club has subsequently slipped down the Premier League table.

Villa reportedly have an option to buy the player for around £33 million this summer, but the recent form he has displayed has led to some doubts creeping in amongst the fanbase as to whether or not the deal is in the best interest of the club.

Sport via Sports Witness are now stating there is a degree of panic on Barcelona's side in relation to the future of Coutinho, as the Spanish side will need the sale of the player to fund further investment in the rebuild for new boss Xavi Hernandez.

The report states that the form of Coutinho has 'set off all the alarms' at the Camp Nou, as Barcelona worry the player's performances could lead to Villa deciding against signing him. Gerrard had previously urged the club to trigger the buy option but the players wishes must also be taken into account.

A move to Newcastle could also be considered if Villa do decide against securing the future of Coutinho on a permanent basis.