Jurgen Klopp says that he would welcome any interest from major European clubs on his star asset – Philippe Coutinho – but has confirmed that there are no intentions to sell the player. The Brazilian has been subjected to transfer rumours linking him with a move to Barcelona. The Catalan club have been showing plenty of interest in the 24-year-old over the last few weeks. Growing concerns about the future of Lionel Messi is thought to be one of the reasons for this transfer rumour. With Messi’s contract coming to an end in the summer of 2018, the Argentine superstar is yet to sign a new deal.
Coutinho has risen into one of the top players in European football at the moment. A return of 10 goals in 36 matches this season may not be enough to warrant this status, but there is little doubt that the presence of the Brazilian motivates the rest of the team towards winning. The club struggled in his absence midway through the season. It is no surprise that results have once again picked up now that the attacker is back in the team. An extremely fluid player capable of playing in a number of positions, Coutinho would fit extremely well in the Barcelona team.
His friendship with Neymar is also thought one of the reasons behind this sudden transfer interest. Yet, Klopp has categorically denied suggestions that Liverpool will entertain another huge offer for their star player. He said:
“Actually, I think it’s positive when there is interest.
“I am not concerned because I think Phil fits really well and comfortably here. We give the boys enough perspective that they really want to be part of this for the next few years.”
The Kop Times Verdict
Liverpool sold Luis Suarez to Barcelona for around £75 million in the summer of 2014. They were unable to keep hold of the Uruguayan, who may have helped them finally end the two-decade long drought for a league title. History appears to be repeating in the case of the Merseyside outfit, who certainly have reasons to be concerned.
Coutinho may have signed a new contract with the club only a few months ago, but his wages are only at £150,000 per week. This would be a fraction of the wage he would receive at Barcelona given his star status. Any player might be easily persuaded with such huge figures on the table. It remains to be seen if Liverpool will offer a new deal to Coutinho just as Tottenham are preparing for Dele Alli to sign a third deal to stave off interest from Real Madrid. It would not be extraordinary to see Coutinho receive a second offer in less than a year considering his status in the team.
https://youtu.be/BqdN_Kr9a3w
