PSG are reportedly the favourites to land wantaway Barcelona superstar Philippe Coutinho, with Juventus ceding their interest in the Brazilian.

According to a report by Italian outlet Calciomercato, Philippe Coutinho is inching closer to joining PSG in this summer’s transfer window. The Brazilian midfielder, who is open to leaving Barcelona, was also courting interest from Serie A champions Juventus, who have now ended their interest in him.

Philippe Coutinho would have felt at the top of the world back in January 2018 as he secured a big-money dream move to Barcelona. The start to life at Camp Nou was strong as well, with the Brazil international playing a key role in the Catalans’ charge for the La Liga and Copa del Rey titles in the second half of the season.

But, the dream ended up turning into a nightmare in his first full season as a Barcelona player. The 27-year-old started just 22 La Liga games and in 54 appearances across all competitions, he had a paltry return of 11 goals and 5 assists. As a result, speculation has been rife about his future in the last few months.

What has only added to the uncertainty surrounding his place in the Barcelona first-team setup is the Blaugrana’s pursuit of former star and PSG forward Neymar. With the Brazilian heavily linked with a return to Barcelona, his compatriot could be the likeliest candidate to depart from Camp Nou this summer, with the player also open to the idea.

Should Neymar actually end up departing from Parc des Princes, Coutinho could be a top class replacement, despite an alarming dip in form this past season at Barcelona. In fact, with his performances for Brazil at the Copa America, he has shown that he could be a creative presence in the final third for his side.

Set for a Parisian move? (Photo by Alexandre Schneider/Getty Images)
Set for a Parisian move? (Photo by Alexandre Schneider/Getty Images)

To that end, Coutinho is a viable target for PSG, who could have a player who could shoulder much of the creative burden for Les Parisiens. But, while the Ligue 1 champions were pursuing a move for the Brazilian playmaker, the looming presence of their Italian counterparts made it complicated for them.

However, Calciomercato are now reporting that Juventus now longer remain interested in the wantaway Barcelona superstar, giving PSG virtually a clear run at him. With Barcelona also ready to part ways with Coutinho – his sale would raise quite a bit of sum to re-sign Neymar – a move could be in the offing.

It now remains to be seen if PSG end up launching the offensive for Coutinho soon and if so, they sign him unhindered. What does appear to be certain, for now, is that the player’s days at Barcelona are numbered.

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