Liverpool Plot Cut-Price Move for Aston Villa Star - Report

Liverpool have reportedly set their sights on Aston Villa forward Andreas Weimann and are hopeful of landing the player on the cheap this summer. The 21-year-old has refused to extend his contract with Villa, which expires in 2014, and could be available for as little as £5m in the upcoming transfer window.

The Metro reports Weimann has turned down a third approach from Villa over a new contract, suggesting the player is not willing to extend his stay with Paul Lambert's side beyond the end of this season. Brendan Rodgers is a huge fan of the Austrian and views the youngster as a long-term replacement for the versatile Dirk Kuyt, who joined Fenerbahce last summer.

The Aston Villa youth product has been in great form this season, scoring 11 goals and assisting three in 23 appearances, an impressive return for a 21-year-old. Weimann has developed a penchant for scoring against top teams, netting twice against Manchester United, while getting a goal against both Arsenal and Liverpool.

However, with eight more games remaining for the forward to continue his form, it is unlikely that Liverpool would go unchallenged in their pursuit for the Austria youth international. Norwich City and Inter Milan are understood to have already expressed an interest in the player.

Coutinho Happy with Liverpool Start

Meanwhile, January signing Philippe Coutinho is pleased with the way things have gone thus far at Anfield, since his transfer from Inter Milan. The Brazilian has already has two goals and two assists from just five appearances for the club, proving to be a bargain buy for Brendan Rodgers' side.

"Things have gone really well for me here so far. Maybe because I played in Italy and spent six months in Spain last season that has helped me adapt more quickly to English football. Also I must thank my team-mates as they have helped me a lot with my first few games," Coutinho told Liverpool Echo

"Everyone has made me feel so welcome. The manager here is still young but he's an excellent person and a very good coach. He speaks openly to everyone and I'm pleased to be working with him. The games are quicker and more physical but I like that. I am learning all the time," he added.