Philippe Coutinho looks set to leave Aston Villa this summer; Al-Duhail and Vasco da Gama are showing interest in the Brazilian midfielder

Philippe Coutinho, once one of the most exciting talents in world football, finds himself in an uncertain situation as his loan spell at Qatari club Al-Duhail SC continues.

Just over a year after his transfer to Aston Villa from Barcelona, ​​the Brazilian midfielder's future with the Premier League club appears bleak under the management of Unai Emery.

Coutinho's time at Villa was marred by injuries and poor performances. Last season, he struggled for form, starting just one league game under Emery, and managed just 24 minutes of Premier League games this season before being sent out on loan. Despite having a contract until 2026, Coutinho does not appear to be part of Emery's plans for the club.

In a bid to cash in on his huge wages, Villa arranged for Coutinho to join Al-Duhail SC on loan last August. The Qatari club are reportedly paying his £125,000-a-week wages in full, giving the Midlands club a financial boost. The move has given Coutinho regular playing time, but it is not guaranteed to lead to a permanent transfer.

Philippe Coutinho's career at Aston Villa will end this summer

Coutinho's name has been linked with many clubs, suggesting that his career could take different paths. Another surprise was his move to MLS team, Inter Miami, where he was reunited with Barcelona teammates Lionel Messi, Luis Suarez, Sergio Busquets, and Jordi Alba. Such a move could revive his career in a less desirable league and under the watchful eyes of world football stars.

Otherwise, a return to Brazil could be on the cards. Brazil's TNT Sports report that Vasco da Gama, the club where Coutinho spent nine years at their youth academy, are interested in bringing him back.

They are reportedly considering a loan deal with an obligation to buy between £4 million and £6 million. The move could give Coutinho a regular place to regain his form and fitness.

Removing Coutinho from their wage bill would provide more financial flexibility for the Villans

Aston Villa remain hopeful of offloading Coutinho permanently to reduce their wage bill. Given his lucrative contract, finding a club willing to take his salary is a challenge. However, successful negotiations with clubs such as Al-Duhail or Vasco da Gama could facilitate a deal that benefits all parties involved.

Whether he continues in Qatar, returns to Brazil, or moves to the top tier of MLS, the upcoming summer transfer window will be crucial to the next chapter of his professional journey. For Aston Villa, finding a solution to his situation would give them financial flexibility and allow them to focus on players who are more in line with Unai Emery's vision for the club.