Philippe Coutinho wants to join Barcelona… but only if deal with Liverpool ‘can be done amicably’
Jurgen Klopp is desperate to keep hold of the Brazilian but knows he could be facing a losing battle
PHILIPPE COUTINHO is pushing for a move to Barcelona, according to reports.
The Catalan giants have eyed the Liverpool ace in a £72million deal to replace Neymar who left for Paris Saint-Germain in a staggering world-record move.
Jurgen Klopp is desperate to keep hold of his talisman but knows he could be facing a losing battle with Coutinho's heart set at the Nou Camp.
According to Sky Sports, Coutinho will swap the Premier League for La Liga if a deal 'can be done amicably'.
Reporter Kaveh Solhekol said: "Philippe Coutinho would like to move to Barcelona if deal can be done amicably with Liverpool. Would only leave Liverpool for Barcelona.
"Liverpool say Coutinho is not for sale. Barcelona have not contacted LFC since £72m offer was firmly and immediately rejected 18 days ago."
It is believed Barca are ready to test Liverpool's resolve with a new bid that could top £90m.
Ernesto Valverde's men were handed a huge boost in the chase for Coutinho after the 25-year-old missed Liverpool's pre-season friendly win over Athletic Bilbao.
Liverpool transfer news
Liverpool insist Coutinho missed the 3-1 victory with a slight niggle but are adamant he will be fit for the Premier League curtain raiser against Watford on Saturday.
Coutinho penned a new five-year deal with Liverpool in January and the club won't be held to ransom over his transfer fee.
It may mean Barca will have to pursuit other targets.
They are thought to be closing in on exciting Borussia Dortmund talent Ousmane Dembele in another staggering deal that could reach £90m.
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