Diego Costa to Liverpool: Reds to launch Chelsea bid if Philippe Coutinho leaves - report

Barcelona remain determined to lure Coutinho away from Liverpool despite having three bids for the Brazilian rejected.

Over at Chelsea, meanwhile, Diego Costa remains the source of much discussion.

The Spain international is currently training alone in Brazil after Antonio Conte informed him via text message he was surplus to requirements.

Chelsea have ordered him back to train but Costa has responded by claiming he is being treated like a “criminal”.

The 28-year-old is desperate to return to former club Atletico Madrid, three years after he joined Chelsea from Diego Simeone's side.

But Spanish outlet Don Balon claims Liverpool are hopeful of convincing him to remain in the Premier League.

It is said Jurgen Klopp will seek to make marquee signings if and when Coutinho eventually joins Barcelona.

And with Costa's Chelsea career dead in the water, the bulldozing centre-forward has emerged as a Klopp target. 

Liverpool have already raided their Premier League rivals for one striker in the form of Dominic Solanke.

But, with the 19-year-old still raw and Daniel Sturridge constantly plagued by injuries, Costa is wanted to lead the Anfield line.

Everton have also been tipped to move for the ex-Atletico man.

And, speaking ahead of their clash with Manchester City on Monday night, Ronald Koeman refused to rule out a move.

"Is this about Costa?" he said when quizzed whether he would be looking at permanent transfers or loan deals. 

"Of course you like to sign players for the future, but if you can get the best one that way, then why not?"