CEO says ‘negotiations already started’ for Aston Villa Star player – Optimistic of securing agreement
Philippe Coutinho’s Future at Vasco da Gama Uncertain as Loan Nears End
Philippe Coutinho’s future remains uncertain as his loan spell at Vasco da Gama draws to a close at the end of June 2025. The Brazilian attacking midfielder, currently contracted to Premier League side Aston Villa until 2026, has been playing for Vasco since July 2023 after falling out of favour under Villa manager Unai Emery. Emery made it clear early on that Coutinho was not part of his long-term plans at Villa Park, leading to the midfielder’s temporary return to his homeland.
Coutinho began his career at Vasco da Gama, rising through the youth ranks before making a name for himself in Europe with clubs like Inter Milan, Liverpool, Barcelona, and Bayern Munich. His return to Brazil was initially seen as a chance to reboot his career in familiar surroundings. Over the past year, he has slowly re-adapted to the Brazilian league, gaining match fitness and integrating into the squad.
Recent reports from Brazil have indicated that Vasco da Gama are keen to keep Coutinho beyond the current loan period. The club values his experience and technical quality, both on the pitch and in the dressing room. According to Brazilian media outlets, Vasco’s management has begun formal negotiations with the player’s representatives in hopes of securing an extension or permanent deal.
On May 31st, Coutinho addressed the situation publicly, stating that he is relaxed and not overly concerned about the outcome of the ongoing talks. Just a few days later, on June 3rd, Vasco da Gama CEO Carlos Amodeo confirmed that the club is waiting on Aston Villa to release the player, a key step required before a longer-term arrangement can be made.
Amodeo spoke again this week, reiterating to ESPN Brazil that discussions with Coutinho’s agent are already underway. He emphasized that the club is committed to keeping the 33-year-old playmaker, citing his growing comfort within the Brazilian league and his influence on the squad.
“We’ve been clear about our intentions — we want to keep Coutinho,” Amodeo stated. “He’s shown great progress in adapting to Brazilian football and to the unique demands of our football calendar.”
He added, “Negotiations with his representative are ongoing. We hope the process will run smoothly, and ideally, when the league resumes after the break, he’ll already have a new contract signed. He’s an important player for us, both in terms of his skills and what he brings to the team dynamic.”
The Brazilian top flight is set for a short break following this week’s fixtures, and Vasco da Gama are hoping the time off will provide a window to finalize the agreement. However, Coutinho’s situation is complicated by his existing contract with Aston Villa, which runs for another year. According to earlier reports, the former Barcelona and Bayern star is seeking an agreement with the Premier League club to terminate his contract early. If a mutual termination cannot be reached, Vasco could attempt to negotiate a fresh loan deal with the English club.
Meanwhile, Villa are managing multiple player situations, including potential arrivals and departures. Coutinho’s agent, Jorge Mendes, has reportedly been active in discussions, including travel to Barcelona amid speculation involving other Aston Villa players like goalkeeper Emiliano Martínez.
As Coutinho’s loan nears its official end, all eyes will be on whether the Brazilian veteran continues his resurgence in Rio de Janeiro — or if new negotiations lead him elsewhere once again.