Is Philippe Coutinho going to Barcelona?

With the January transfer window now open, will Barcelona finally bring in Philippe Coutinho?

The longest running transfer saga of the summer concerned Barcelona’s pursuit of Philippe Coutinho. After Neymar departed for PSG, Barcelona needed attacking reinforcements, and targeted Coutinho. Despite the player’s protests, Liverpool’s stance was clear: the Brazilian wasn’t for sale.

When Barca signed Ousmane Dembele from Dortmund, it seemed the chase was over, at least until next summer. Yet here we are again, rumors circling. This time, however, a deal between the clubs seems much more likely.

In the summer, Liverpool were hard set on not letting the Brazilian leave. Now, it seems their stance has changed.  The Reds are looking for offers of at least £130 million. However, this is more of a positive for Barcelona than anything, as they understand the requirements to make a deal happen.

Undoubtedly, Coutinho is a key player for Liverpool and has been a big reason behind their good start in both the Premier League and Champions League. He has five goals and two assists in Champions League play, and has added seven goals and six assists in the Premier League. His value is obvious, but Liverpool feel as though they’ll survive without him.

With the huge transfer sum they would receive, they could easily bring in a replacement. Perhaps they could throw money at Thomas Lemar or Leon Goretzka. Regardless, there are players that Liverpool could find to replace their star. The Anfield club have already been active in the transfer window, bringing in Virgil van Djik.

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But should they sell Coutinho, they’ll need someone to replace his production. Barcelona know what they need to do. Liverpool have expressed that they’re willing to let the deal go through. All that’s left is for Barcelona to make a bid.