Liverpool star Philippe Coutinho 'tops PSG's shopping list' as Ligue 1 giants pin hopes on Neymar friendship

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Liverpool are bracing themselves for another summer of heavy interest in their star man Philippe Coutinho.

Reports in France claim that PSG are set to join the race for the Brazilian playmaker's signature next year after he came close to leaving the club in August.

Coutinho handed in a transfer request in a bid to force a move to Barcelona, but the Reds were unwilling to sell.

PSG have made Philippe Coutinho their top priority next summer according to French reports

The Brazilian watches on from the stands as his Liverpool team-mates beat Huddersfield

French TV network TF1 suggest that not only will the Parisians make their interest known in Coutinho, but will make him their priority next summer.

They claim that first contact has been made between the two clubs, with PSG hopeful that his strong friendship with Neymar will sway him to spurn Barca's advances.

The Ligue 1 leaders pulled off an extraordinary transfer coup in the summer when they prised the Brazil star from the Nou Camp for an eye-watering £198m.

The Ligue 1 giants hope Coutinho's friendship with Neymar could sway him

They also report that PSG are seeking a move for Fluminese's Wendel and Inter Milan midfielder Joao Mario in January.

Despite not getting his dream move in the summer Coutinho has been one of Liverpool's better performers despite a disappointing start to the season.

The 25-year-old has scored four times in eight appearances after returning to the first-team picture following the closure of the transfer window. 

Coutinho has been one of Liverpool's better performers despite a disappointing season