According to Mundo Deportivo, Philippe Coutinho has requested a move to Barcelona in January.
The paper claims that the Spanish giants have ‘two lines of communication open with Liverpool’ and are confident they can sign the Brazilian playmaker when the transfer window reopens in the New Year. They also state that Liverpool have reiterated their asking price for the playmaker is €200m, but Barca are attempting to negotiate a lower price.
“I do not know how the future is going to be,” said Coutinho.
“What will happen in January, we will know it in January. I do not know if there will be an offer. I am at Liverpool and I always do my best when I have the opportunity to play, respecting the jersey and the supporters.
“Last summer there was a job offer in the same way that happens with any employee and I was interested in it. Since I stayed, I have played with will and desire.”
Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp recently dodged the question of Coutinho’s future and inferred that an agreement was made in the summer to postpone discussions until January.
Expect daily Coutinho-themed advent calendar of transfer rumour stories between now and Christmas.