According to Le10Sport, Liverpool are the latest club to show interest in the services of Philippe Coutinho. The Barcelona star is expected to leave the club this summer as the Catalans plot a move for the potential return of Neymar. However, the Reds could face stiff competition from arch-rivals Manchester United and Chelsea in the pursuit of the Brazilian international.
Coutinho’s disappointing spell at Barcelona
Coutinho has struggled to make a notable impact at Barcelona since making a €145 million switch from Liverpool at the start of last year. Although he did manage a productive record, having been involved in 32 goals in 76 matches in all competitions, he failed to fill the massive hole left by Neymar in the summer of 2017.
The Brazilian international featured in only 2,019 minutes of league football in the recently concluded La Liga campaign. He scored only five goals and provided two assists. As a result, he was often overlooked by manager Ernesto Valverde in favour of Ousmane Dembele.
Hence, it’s clear that Coutinho has failed to live up to Barcelona’s lofty expectations and a move away from Catalonia could be necessary if he is to revive his career next season.
Should Liverpool make a move for Coutinho?
Whether Liverpool fans like it or not, Coutinho’s return to Anfield will significantly strengthen the Reds’ attack, provided both Mohamed Salah and Sadio Mane remain at the club beyond this summer.
The Brazilian international has worked with Jurgen Klopp before, and his previous exposure in the Premier League could help him settle in quickly. And that is a significantly less risky option as opposed to signing the likes of Nicolas Pepe or Bruno Fernandes.
Furthermore, Liverpool will be able to offer Coutinho the opportunity to operate in his preferred attacking midfield slot. The 27-year-old has recently shined in that role with Brazil in the ongoing Copa America and utilising him in the extra midfield slot in Klopp’s 4-3-3 could turn out to be beneficial for the Reds.
It is unknown as to how much Coutinho could cost, but Barcelona will be looking to secure a fair chunk of the €145 million sum they paid for the midfielder last year. But one thing is for sure – the Brazilian could make Liverpool a much more dangerous attacking side and will help them pose a strong challenge to Manchester City for the Premier League title next season.
