Philippe Coutinho ‘on brink’ of joining Barcelona in £70m deal but Jurgen Klopp wants him for Liverpool’s Champions League play-off
Catalans want Brazilian as direct replacement for fellow countryman Neymar, who is edging closer to joining PSG
PHILIPPE COUTINHO is “on the brink” of joining Barcelona in a £70million deal, having “asked to leave Liverpool”, according to reports in Catalonia.
The Brazilian is a long-term target for the La Liga giants, and is seen as a potential replacement for wantaway striker, Neymar.
Liverpool have made it clear all summer they intend to keep hold of the 25-year-old.
But Sport claim a deal is getting closer as talks are at an advanced stage — with both clubs expecting to come to an agreement.
Barcelona are likely to see their transfer coffers significantly increased with the expected sale of Neymar to Paris Saint-Germain.
Last season’s Ligue 1 runners-up look certain to sign the Brazil superstar, but will need to pay his £196m release clause in order to seal the deal.
Nou Camp directors met with Coutinho’s representatives in London to think up the best possible strategy to complete the transfer.
The former Inter Milan attacking midfielder is reported to have told Liverpool he wants to leave for Barcelona.
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The Catalans will make a bid of around £70m and leave Coutinho to take care of the rest.
Liverpool were hoping their star man would lead a potential title charge this season, but appear to have reluctantly accepted he will be off.
Jurgen Klopp wants him to play in at least the first leg of their Champions League play-off tie regardless of his future.
And, should he make an appearance, it would not see him cup tied by Uefa.