Philippe Coutinho was phoned by David Luiz, Willian and Lucas Leiva upon completing Barcelona transfer
Premier League rivals were quick to congratulate Brazil team-mate - perhaps because they will no longer play against him
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PREMIER LEAGUE stars rang Philippe Coutinho to congratulate him on his £145million Barcelona transfer.
Chelsea pair David Luiz and Willian phoned their Brazil team-mate to wish him well in the Catalan city.
And even former Liverpool ace Lucas Leiva was pleased for the midfielder and called him via FaceTime on Thursday night while Coutinho and his family were dining in a private room at Mayfair's plush Les Ambassadeurs restaurant.
Lazio star Lucas reassured Coutinho, 25, that the transfer would pay off despite the fact he is cup-tied for the rest of the season and cannot help Barca in the Champions League.
As quoted by the Daily Mail, he said: "Missing the Champions League means you will be fresh for the World Cup, my friend.
"It's not ideal, but you have to look at things positively."
Liverpool announced the British record transfer on Saturday night and after getting off his private jet, Coutinho was congratulated by Premier League rivals.
Brazil team-mates Luiz and Willian rang him up to pass on their regards - perhaps pleased they would no longer need to play against their Samba pal.
SET UP (NOU) CAMP Philippe Coutinho bought a house by Barcelona team-mate Luis Suarez in same neighbourhood as him and Lionel Messi
For Coutinho, it was the chance to win silverware with his "idols" which sealed a dream Barcelona move.
He said: "It is incredible to know I will be around idols, with players who have such a great history like Leo Messi, Luis Suarez, Andres Iniesta, Gerard Pique, Sergio Busquets — all the great players.
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“To be able to play football, win titles, make the fans happy and play with a smile. These are the objectives.
“I am very happy to know I will be playing with them and I hope to be able to learn, live and win together.
“I have always said I am living a dream, we are very happy to be here.”