Talks held: Newcastle now looking to snatch 'world-class' midfielder from Premier League rivals

Newcastle United are reportedly now looking to snatch Philippe Coutinho from under the noses of Aston Villa in the summer.

First impressions of Coutinho back in the Premier League on loan from FC Barcelona have certainly been good ones.

He has four goals and three assists in 16 games in the top flight for Villa so far this season (Transfermarkt), and his performances have persuaded Steven Gerrard to try and sign him on a permanent deal.

His form has fallen off a little of late, forcing Gerrard to drop him for their clash against Burnley last weekend, but that hasn’t stopped the Magpies from showing their hand…

As per Goal Brazil, the St. James’ Park faithful have kept in touch with Barcelona’s board over a potential move for Coutinho this summer, but Villa have a buy option of €40m (£34.2m).

However, PIF are willing to pay the same amount, and Coutinho wants to stay in the Premier League, meaning it could be up to the player to determine which project is the best fit.

Hailed as a ‘world-class‘ player by Gerrard back in January, Coutinho has shown that he can still play at the highest level this season, and at 29 years of age, should be at the peak of his powers with plenty of time ahead of him.

Former Liverpool teammate and fellow Brazilian Roberto Firmino has even gone as far as to claim that he has ‘magical powers‘, in awe of his ability on the ball, and he would add even more Samba flair to a midfield that already contains Bruno Guimaraes and Joelinton.

Nonetheless, the prospect of the trio playing and linking up together is truly mouth-watering for the Toon Army, and so the North East club should be looking to beat Villa to his signature.

In other news, find out which NUFC talent is now attracting interest here!

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