Juventus could prise away Brazilian star with club-record £155m bid

Juventus have reportedly emerged as the latest admirers of Liverpool midfielder Philippe Coutinho. The Brazil international was heavily tipped to leave Anfield prior to transfer deadline day last summer, but the Reds’ hierarchy stuck with their not-for-sale stance. Coutinho has since maintained his solidity with the Merseyside giants, and he has contributed directly to seven goals (ESPN) in just nine games across all competitions.

Jurgen Klopp’s side had received as many as three bids from Barcelona during the summer transfer window, and their highest offer of £114m plus add-ons was turned down by the Reds despite the attacker having submitted a formal transfer request.

While Barcelona remain key contenders for the Brazilian’s services, and they face competition from Paris Saint-Germain and now Juventus, who are keen on recruiting a world-class midfielder. As per Don Balon, the Old Lady could be willing to offer as much as £155m for the former Inter Milan man, who has adapted to a central attacking role at Anfield this term.

Liverpool have the advantage of not including a buy-out clause in the player’s contract, but Coutinho’s time at the club looks limited with Barcelona, in particular, assuring of a spot on the left side of the attack. Coutinho is currently recuperating from an adductor injury, and it could be said that the Reds are not overly missing him with Mohamed Salah standing out with his performance of late.

Salah joined the Reds on a club-record deal from AS Roma in the summer, and he has since played primarily in the right-wing position, netting 11 goals and three assists across all competitions (ESPN). The 25-year-old featured in the second striker role during the 4-1 triumph over West Ham United last weekend and his versatility offers Klopp the chance to change his formation – just as he did with a 4-4-2 at the London Stadium.

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