Barca want Countinho to replace Pedro?

Liverpool midfielder Philippe Coutinho has been touted by the Catalan Press as Barcelona’s preferred replacement for Pedro Rodriguez.

Pedro was sold to Chelsea late in the summer and Barca’s transfer embargo meant they were unable to replace the Spain international.

Sport reports that Coutinho has been identified as an option and there could be a move in the winter transfer window, but it may also wait until the summer.

Barca’s finances are also a factor and any approach to the Reds for the Brazil international would be determined by the money available, although Coach Luis Enrique has made clear he wants more attacking options after a raft of injuries.

Barca could decide to make a short-term signing in January to help the team through to the end of the season, at which point they may step up their interest in Coutinho.

Coutinho has taken on new representation and it’s believed they have close links to La Blaugrana, having spoken at length with Barca regarding David Luiz and Marquinhos.

Neymar has also encouraged Coutinho to consider Barca as the pair are close friends, while Coutinho knows the region as he spent six months on loan at Espanyol from Inter.

If Coutinho does decide to leave Anfield then it’s expected Barca would be his preferred destination.

Tags Coutinho Liverpool
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