Philippe Coutinho could return to the Liverpool squad for next week's trip to Manchester City.

The midfielder was named in Jurgen Klopp's 25-man squad after failing to secure a move to Barcelona during the summer transfer window, reports the Liverpool Echo.

Coutinho returned to action for Brazil after missing the Reds' start to the season with a back injury.

Barca had three bids rejected for the 24-year-old, and the idea of a fourth attempt was eventually shelved as it was made clear that negotiations would not be opened at any price.

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It leaves Coutinho, who handed in a transfer request in a bid to force a move last month, in an awkward position now.

Klopp has so far kept his counsel on the matter, declaring that it was a situation to be dealt with by Liverpool’s owners.

However, leaked stories in the Spanish press suggesting that part of Coutinho’s desire to leave Anfield stemmed from a breakdown in his relationship with the manager will further complicate matters.

Coutinho failed to secure a move to Barcelona (
Image:
REX/Shutterstock)

Indeed, after that game against Ecuador, Coutinho’s Brazilian teammate Neymar spoke to the media about the “ great sadness ” his friend is facing having seen his dream move fail to materialise.

It is likely that face to face talks between Klopp and Coutinho will be held upon the latter’s return to Merseyside next week, with a view to reintegrating the player back into the squad.

Liverpool head to Manchester City next Saturday for what promises to be a huge Premier League clash.

And while Coutinho is unlikely to be considered for an immediate return to Klopp’s starting line-up given the side’s form in recent wins over Hoffenheim and Arsenal, the idea of having their star man to come back in and strengthen their numbers will surely appeal.

Klopp, to that end, will assess Coutinho’s fitness and frame of mind at Melwood before making a decision.

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