According to a recent report by Sport (via the Metro), Chelsea are prepared to cash in on Eden Hazard to fund a move for Barcelona attacker Phillipe Coutinho if their transfer ban gets delayed. The same source has also revealed that the Brazilian midfielder will welcome the chance to move to Stamford Bridge as he would be able to link up with his international compatriots, Willian, David Luiz, Emerson Palmieriuniqueand Jorginho.
Coutinho has struggled to settle in the La Liga since making a switch from Liverpool at the start of last year. The Brazilian has been a sporadic option for Ernesto Valverde and has often been deployed from the bench. The lack of regular game time has harmed his chances of finding consistency with his performances at the Nou Camp this season.
The 26-year-old has made a total of 42 appearances for the Catalan giants this term, scoring nine goals while grabbing five assists in all competitions. He has also earned 42 international caps for the Brazilian national side and has 13 goals for his country to his name.
He would be a massive coup for the Pensioners if they can find a way to pull off this move. Coutinho has previously proven himself in the Premier League and knows what it takes to be productive in English football.
Coutinho is blessed with excellent ball control and can dribble past his marker using his pace and trickery. What makes the Brazilian so special is his ability to unlock a defence with a decisive pass, a trait that made him such a great player at Anfield during his time with Jurgen Klopp’s Liverpool.
However, he has been underwhelming for Barca this season and needs to make a fresh start to try and reignite his career. Chelsea could be a good fit for the South American sensation as he might flourish while playing football under a world-class manager like Maurizio Sarri.
The Brazilian’s acquisition will undoubtedly bolster Sarri’s attacking options at the West London club and could be a perfect replacement for Eden Hazard if he ends up leaving the club at the end of this campaign. Hence, the Pensioners should do everything in their power to secure the services of Coutinho especially if they lose Hazard next summer.
