Liverpool boost as Barcelona set sights on alternative to Philippe Coutinho transfer

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Liverpool fans, rejoice!

Barcelona could reportedly switch their focus to the transfer of Bayern Munich midfielder Thiago Alcantara if Liverpool don’t sell Philippe Coutinho this January.

The Catalan giants are known to be looking to add some spark and creativity to their midfield this winter, and Coutinho has long been one of their priority targets for that role.

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BBC Sport reported that Barca had three bids turned down for the Brazilian playmaker this summer, while the Daily Mail recently claimed they were set to come back in for him again in the middle of the season.

However, Don Balon now claim their attention has turned to Alcantara, who is said to be keen on making the move back to La Liga after a few years in Germany.

The Spain international started his career at the Nou Camp but left for Bayern in 2013 after failing to establish himself as a regular in a side boasting players like Xavi and Andres Iniesta at their peak.

Thiago Alcantara return?

Now, however, there could be a role for Alcantara at Barcelona, with Xavi no longer at the club and Iniesta no longer able to produce his very best form week in, week out.

Diario Gol reported last week that Barcelona could also look at cheap options like signing Mesut Ozil, Juan Mata or Ander Herrera on free transfers next summer as the trio are currently looking like being out of contract.

However, there’s no question Alcantara is one of the best players in the world in his position and would be well worth the investment if a deal can be agreed with Bayern.

The 26-year-old has been a key member of the side at the Allianz Arena since he joined, but it seems he’d be open to a departure and it would be understandable if he’d be tempted to try again to make a success of things at his first club.

For Liverpool fans, they’ll be delighted to see Coutinho is no longer Barca’s only target for that creative midfield role, and will hope that means they can keep hold of their star player for at least a little longer.

More Stories Ernesto Valverde Philippe Coutinho Thiago Alcantara