Spanish press had a field day yesterday by reporting that Liverpool ace Philippe Coutinho has edged closer to a move to Barcelona after he ‘agreed a contract in principle’. This news comes in the wake of earlier reports that the Reds rejected a £72million bid for the Brazilian (Telegraph).

Mundo Deportivo (via talkSPORT) says that Coutinho has already held discussions with the Catalan club over a move and has agreed to personal terms.

Before venturing into the veracity of these reports, let’s look at why Coutinho keeps getting linked to Barcelona. It is an open secret that after the departure of Xavi and the imminent retirement of Andres Iniesta (whenever that happens), Barcelona are looking for a classy playmaker. Coutinho fits the bill perfectly.

The desire to sign him has become more prominent this summer, with all the news around Neymar. The Brazilian forward has been linked with a sensational world record transfer move to Paris Saint-Germain (Guardian). One of the grouses for Neymar is that he is the last-standing Brazilian at the club – of course, apart from the financial reasons. That is exactly why the Catalan club are going after Coutinho’s signature.

The potential arrival of the playmaker could appease an unhappy Neymar and it will be a win-win for the club. Even if he leaves, Coutinho will be a great replacement for his friend Neymar, with whom he was involved from Brazil youth team days.

What About Liverpool?

The 25-year-old has been pivotal to Jurgen Klopp’s plans who, time and again has reiterated that he won’t be sold. Now that Champions League is returning to Anfield, even the lure of Camp Nou shouldn’t entice Coutinho. There are reports that we value the playmaker at £89million but that doesn’t mean we will encourage bids (Sport via Daily Mail).

What About Coutinho?

The Brazilian has always maintained that the atmosphere at Anfield is one of the best in the world. He is not someone who rocks the boat and pushes for a transfer. That will happen only if we struggle for 2-3 consecutive seasons. With Klopp at the helm, I doubt if that would ever happen. Barca can keep dreaming but Coutinho is here to stay at Anfield.

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