By Wayne Veysey

23rd Aug, 2023 | 12:32pm

Sources: Aston Villa star Coutinho set to be out for up to a month

Aston Villa star Philippe Coutinho is facing three to four weeks out with the hamstring injury he sustained in Sunday’s win over Everton, sources have told Football Insider.

Nevertheless, the 31-year-old could complete a move away from Villa Park before the window shuts – with the Midlands giants giving him the green light to do so.

It is believed a Qatari club is currently leading the race to seal his signature – ahead of competition from sides in the Saudi Pro League.

The injury should not prevent Coutinho from completing a medical at a potential new club – and the transfer windows in the Middle East are open for longer than in England.

Qatar’s window closes on 18 September, while the deadline in Saudi Arabia is 20 September – with more mega-money arrivals expected in both countries.

Coutinho‘s injury blow follows news of long-term layoffs for Tyrone Mings and Emiliano Buendia – who have both suffered serious knee injuries in the last month.

Alex Moreno and Jacob Ramsey are also currently out injured.

Reinforcements in the attacking midfield area have been added in recent days, with Italy international Nicolo Zaniolo joining Aston Villa on a season-long loan from Galatasaray.

Coutinho, who is under contract until June 2026, has come off the bench in both of Villa’s fixtures so far this season.

He struggled after joining the club permanently last summer (2022), notching just one goal across 22 games in the 2022-23 campaign.

Unai Emery’s side are next in action against Hibernian in Europa Conference League qualifying on Wednesday (23 August).

In other news, Villa star undergoing medical at Premier League club with buy-back agreed.