Liverpool are determined to retain Philippe Coutinho and have reportedly turned down an offer of €100 million from Barcelona
According to a report by Fichajes, Barcelona have had a bid of €100 million rejected by Liverpool as the Spanish giants scramble to land a deal for Philippe Coutinho. The Reds have rejected an earlier bid from Barcelona as well and it looks like they are determined to make the talented Brazilian stay back at Anfield.
Coutinho’s career has skyrocketed ever since he joined Liverpool from Inter Milan back in 2013. The 24-year-old has secured a spot for himself in Liverpool, establishing himself as an indispensable member of the squad. So much so, that he is widely regarded as one of the best midfielders in the Premier League presently.
The Brazil international played 31 games across all competitions for the Reds last season, scoring 13 goals while also providing seven assists. He has also become a regular in the Brazil national team and is quite in-demand this transfer window.
Although several clubs are keen, Barcelona have been the front-runners for months. The Catalan giants have focused their attention on reinforcing the midfield this summer and Coutinho is one of their priority targets.
Last season, Andres Iniesta was yet again one of the most influential players for Barcelona but age is catching up to him and the club are, hence, seeking a younger alternative. Meanwhile, Ivan Rakitic is experiencing a decline in his form, and Denis Suarez and Andre Gomes have been struggling to settle at Camp Nou.
Thus, Coutinho seems like a good option but it remains to be seen how far Barcelona are willing to be pushed to land a deal. Understandably, Jurgen Klopp is reluctant to let Coutinho leave since he has been a vital member of the squad and an instrumental figure in Liverpool’s fortunes last season.
It is uncertain if Barcelona will launch an increased third bid for Coutinho. But as things stand, it is quite evident that they are in dire need of midfield reinforcements. After failing to land a deal for Verratti, it seems unlikely that Barcelona will let a chance to sign one of the best midfielders in the Premier League slip by.
