Aston Villa already have transfer agreement in principle for first summer signing

Aston Villa could already have their first signing of the summer lined up ahead of the next window.

Brazil international Philippe Coutinho, who is currently on loan at Villa, could join the club on a permanent basis this summer.

That is because Villa have an option to buy the playmaker at the end of the season, reportedly for around £33million, following the end of his six-month loan switch from Barcelona.

When the loan agreement was struck between Villa and the Catalan giants, Barcelona said in a statement: "The agreement includes an option to make the transfer permanent."

Though, Villa head coach Steven Gerrard has been keen to wave away suggestions that a decision whether or not to sign Coutinho permanently could be made before the end of the season.

The 29-year-old has made a bright start to life as a Villa player, having contributed to six goals in in his first seven games back in the Premier League.

He shone in Villa's 4-0 win over Southampton last time out, scoring one and assisting another as Gerrard's side put the Saints to the sword at Villa Park on Saturday.

Speaking before the game, Gerrard confirmed no decision would be take on the player's long-term future, despite the option to buy in the agreement which saw him join Villa on loan back in January.

"His level has been top since he came in and now that he is fit and match fit physically I only predict that he can shine from now until the end of the season, which obviously helps Aston Villa," Gerrard said.

"He’s happy, he’s settled here. In terms of a long-term decision, we’re analysing that situation every single day and it’s something that we will come to at the end of the season."