According to a recent report by Sport (translated by the Daily Express), Barcelona midfielder Philippe Coutinho is eager to make a return to Liverpool amid recent reports linking him with a move to Tottenham Hotspur and Manchester United. The same source has also revealed that the Catalan outfit are desperately trying to cash in on the Brazilian talent this summer. However, ESPN sources close to Barca have claimed that the South American playmaker won’t make a Premier League return this summer.
In a recent interview, Ernesto Valverde provided an update on Coutinho’s future and said (via the Daily Mirror), “Of course I am counting on him. We don’t know what’s going to happen, but he’s with us.
“We will see if on Saturday he can play some minutes.
“The idea is the same with him as everyone else. We count on him, of course.”
With just hours left to run before the English transfer window slams shut, Liverpool can benefit from making a move for the Brazilian as he wants to return to Anfield to link up with his old colleagues. The Reds have only made three signings in this window, but none of them will be regular starters in Jurgen Klopp’s first-team next season.
Thus, the Merseyside outfit should reassess and consider moving in for their former player. He might be the missing link who could help Klopp’s men win the Premier League title in the upcoming campaign.
Coutinho has won three trophies since arriving at the Nou Camp back in January last year. However, he has struggled to find confidence and has been inconsistent with his performances on the pitch. The 27-year-old has registered 11 goals and provided five assists in 54 appearances for Barca in all fronts last season. The Rio de Janeiro born midfield ace played an instrumental role in Brazil’s success in the Copa America earlier this summer when he helped his nation emerge victorious in front of their home supporters.
What Are The Brazil International’s Best Attributes?
Coutinho is renowned for his creative skills with many considering him among the best playmakers in European football. The La Liga sensation has the vision to open up any defence with a defence-splitting pass in the offensive end of the field. He is also deadly from long-range as he can strike the ball with power and precision. However, Coutinho can be a liability when not in possession of the ball as he has a low defensive work-rate.
The Reds should still consider making an offer for the Brazilian midfielder today as he will be able to add another dimension to Jurgen Klopp’s attack. Liverpool’s famous front three of Sadio Mane, Roberto Firmino and Mohamed Salah have fired on all cylinders over the past couple of seasons. However, the Merseyside club relies too much on them, which could end up hurting their chances of securing the league title during the business end of this campaign.
Should The Reds Make A Move For Coutinho?
A playmaker of Coutinho’s creative skills would have undoubtedly improved Klopp’s squad significantly ahead of the new campaign. Hence, the German manager should consider orchestrating a late move to bring the Brazilian back to Anfield.
