Barca submitted a third offer for the Liverpool star last week.
But the Reds stood by their claim Coutinho won’t be sold this summer and rejected the mega-money deal.
Balague claims Nou Camp bosses will have been aware of their bid stood little chance of success.
He tweeted: “I have the impression FCB knew the third offer for Coutinho was doomed but helps cheapen other targets. A diversionary tactic.”
Barcelona are keen on Borussia Dortmund’s Ousmane Dembele but a deal is rated at no more than 50 per cent likely to happen.
Other names linked with a move to the Spanish giants include Nice star Jean-Michael Seri.
Joey Barton thinks Liverpool should sell Coutinho.
He said on talkSPORT this morning: “I think they should sell Coutinho.
"If they can get rid of Coutinho and buy two of three players, it no doubt improves them as a squad.
"Coutinho on his own, yes he makes a massive difference to Liverpool, but they need to strengthen in other areas.”