Various reports in Spain suggest that Liverpool star midfielder Philippe Coutinho has been heavily linked with a move to the country with the Brazilian expressing his willingness to play there. The rumours have already kept clubs out of England like Real Madrid and PSG on high alert, who are admirers of the player.
But, Coutinho has reportedly his sights fixed on Barcelona. It is also being reported that Coutinho’s agents have revealed that the Brazilian was in advanced talks with the Blaugrana and the deal fell out at the last moment with Barcelona disagreeing to Coutinho’s huge price tag. Another reason was that Coutinho’s position has been more than covered in the Barca squad.
Phillipe Coutinho is primarily an attacking midfield, who can with equal dexterity on both the wings, left and right. He has been in fierce form for Liverpool for the last two seasons. He has bagged 4 goals and 4 assists already this season in the opening 10 games and Jürgen Klopp’s tactics revolve much around the 24-year-old Brazilian.
Barcelona have Neymar and Lionel Messi on the flanks and there are currently no players in the world to replace them in that position. The only position Coutinho could fit in is by starting from the bench.
With a height of 171cm, Coutinho has proved that one can succeed in the Premier League even without a very athletic build. He is a highly skilful player with a very accurate right foot. Coutinho has scored some really sublime long-range goals and has become a dead ball specialist for Liverpool. His vision for players up front is also noteworthy, which allows him to provide some impeccable through ball. His only weaknesses are his ability to finish one on one with the keeper and the aerial duels.
All these attributes make him a mouthwatering prospect for any club in Europe, but Barcelona at the moment does not look to be the right destination for him at the moment. The only other advanced position in Barca would be that of Andres Iniesta, who is heading towards the end days of his career. But that makes Coutinho a long-term target, which won’t be a good option considering the player is currently at his peak.
Liverpool, however, are in no mood to sell their star player and have long term plans around him. They are currently in the 3rd position of the Premier League table on level points with Arsenal and Manchester City and separated on goal difference.
