Liverpool boss Klopp would accept Barcelona star Rakitic in return for Coutinho - report

IVAN RAKITIC moving to Liverpool would convince Jurgen Klopp to sell Philippe Coutinho to Barcelona, according to shock reports in Spain.

Ivan Rakitic shows brilliant close control

Today no player on the planet is untouchable

Jurgen Klopp

The Reds are determined not to sell their star playmaker this summer.

And Express Sport understands a second bid from Barcelona worth £90million was swiftly rejected.

Barcelona had already seen a £72m offer turned down, and their latest bid has fallen on deaf ears too.

Klopp has highlighted the struggle to replace Coutinho with only three weeks to go in the transfer window is another incentive not to do business with Barcelona.

The Reds boss said: "Today no player on the planet is untouchable. But a transfer is also a question of timing and if you have the opportunity and the need to react to such a transfer.

Ivan RakiticGETTY

Ivan Rakitic could be used as a makeweight to get Philippe Coutinho to Barcelona

"Also you have to ask, if you have the time to react."

However, one proposal that would apparently prove appealing to Klopp is if Barcelona were to include Rakitic in a deal.

According to Spanish outlet Don Balon, Klopp would accept the inclusion of the Croatia ace as part of the switch.

The 29-year-old is said to be an admirer of the Liverpool boss.

The pair came up against each other during Rakitic's time playing at Schalke and Klopp's time in charge at Borussia Dortmund.

Klopp CoutinhoGETTY

Jurgen Klopp does not want to lose Philippe Coutinho but would welcome Ivan Rakitic to Liverpool

Should Coutinho arrive at the Nou Camp, Rakitic would also likely see his game time diminish, especially if Ousmane Dembele is signed too.

Barcelona had promised their star midfielder he would not leave, but they are desperate to land top target Philippe Coutinho.

Klopp is aware the Brazilian has already reached an agreement with Barcelona, meaning he is standing in the way of a transfer.

As things stand, Don Balon add the two clubs are looking at potential solutions.

Would you like to receive news notifications from Daily Express?