According to the Sunday World (14/06, back page), Barcelona playmaker Philippe Coutinho wants a return to Liverpool this summer – and would take a pay cut to re-join.
It’s claimed that Coutinho has made a ‘personal plea’ to Liverpool boss Jurgen Klopp in the hope of tempting him into re-signing him this summer.
Coutinho would even be prepared to take a pay cut, leaving the ball in Liverpool’s court as they must consider whether a move is financially viable.
They just backed away from a move for Timo Werner. The striker will instead join Chelsea, with Liverpool deciding such a move would be risky in the current climate.
Liverpool need to be careful financially, and sanctioning a deal for Coutinho seems like the kind of risk they just aren’t able to take right now.
The Reds sold him for £142million in 2018, and whilst Barcelona may be willing to sell him for around half the price, The Telegraph note that he still earns over £200,000-a-week.
Having decided against signing Werner, it’s tough to see Liverpool now stepping up for Coutinho in what would most likely be an even more expensive move.
He was a favourite at Anfield in the past, but bringing him back now just doesn’t add up for Liverpool. Maybe a loan deal could work, but Klopp would likely be forced to jam the Brazilian into his midfield three rather than out wide – not exactly an ideal fit.
Add in that the source isn’t a top Liverpool source like the Liverpool Echo, and it’s hard to see this one coming off – even if there is truth to Coutinho’s wishes.
Receive exclusive football transfer news and updates twice a week to your mailbox
