Wolves are waiting for Aston Villa to trigger £33m Philippe Coutinho clause

Philippe Coutinho added another goal to his Aston Villa collection last night as Steven Gerrard’s team dismantled Leeds United.

The Brazilian’s goal in Villa’s 3-0 victory at Elland Road was his fourth since joining on loan from Barcelona in January, in addition to three assists in his eight Premier League games.

Villa have the option to sign Coutinho permanently for £33million. Gerrard has already made his mind up, but admits the deal isn’t "as straightforward as people think."

"Phil has got to obviously want to be here in terms of the big picture but he is enjoying his football and looks happy and settled,” Gerrard added.

"I know the owners are very ambitious, so we will just analyse it as we go along. But if it was totally on me and it was my cash you know what I would do."

Villa’s strategy under owners Nassef Sawiris and Wes Edens has always been to buy players whose transfer value can be increased.

The club reaffirmed that in their 2021 accounts, saying the owners’ vision has always been to “develop, recruit and secure talented young players on long-term contracts to build asset value in our playing squad and to ensure long-term sustainability.”

By the time next season starts, Coutinho will be 30-years-old. He will also be on astronomical wages compared to the vast majority of his teammates. Signing Coutinho wouldn’t exactly be in keeping with Villa’s transfer strategy.

He is, however, a player who can rapidly elevate the club into the conversation for the European spots. The decision is likely to be made at the end of the season.

One of Villa’s closest rivals, Wolverhampton Wanderers, are also keeping a close eye on the Coutinho situation. Wolves loaned Adama Traore to Barcelona in January and the Camp Nou