Liverpool want Ivan Rakitic if Philippe Coutinho joins Barcelona as Neymar’s replacement this summer
Jurgen Klopp is reluctant to sell star player but is determined to make sure he benefits from big-money switch
LIVERPOOL will reportedly demand Ivan Rakitic as part of Philippe Coutinho’s proposed move to Barcelona.
Jurgen Klopp is reluctant to sell his best player but appears to have no other choice after the Brazilian submitted a formal transfer request.
Liverpool have already rejected a number of bids from Barcelona, with the latest weighing in at a hefty £90million.
And TMW claims the Reds will not sanction the deal unless they can get Croatian superstar Rakitic in return.
The 29-year-old is a key man for Barcelona and the Spaniards are sure to dig their heels in.
But after splashing the cash on Paulinho, Nou Camp chiefs could decide Rakitic is worth sacrificing in order to get the more attack-minded Coutinho.
And with just weeks remaining in the transfer window, Barcelona could make their next move sooner rather than later.
Coutinho is desperate to make the move to Catalonia and did not travel with Liverpool for Tuesday night’s 2-1 win over Hoffenheim in the Champions League qualifiers.
Latest Liverpool News
Meanwhile, Barca are also closing in on a deal for Borussia Dortmund winger Ousmane Dembele.
The France international has been suspended indefinitely by his club for going AWOL last week.
However, Barca are confident that a deal will go ahead shortly.
🚨 EXCLUSIVE OFFER: Premier League Top Goalscorer 🚨
ROMELU LUKAKU has come in to 2/1 to finish as the Premier League top scorer.
The Belgian scored twice against West Ham on Sunday to put an immediate market down in the Golden Boot race.
Harry Kane, who has NEVER scored a goal in August, is 2/1.
And there is value to be had in Alexandre Lacazette.
He is 8/1 even after scoring on his debut against Leicester last week.
Sun Bets have a blinding special offer for top scorer.
If you bet £25 on any player to top the table at the end of the season, they'll give a £5 free bet for every game he scores in until October.
The offer is valid until midnight August 27 and is open to ALL customers.
BET £25 ON THE PREMIER LEAGUE TOP SCORER AND GET A FREE £5 BET FOR EVERY GAME HE SCORES IN