FC Barcelona transfer rumour update – Mesut Özil and Riyad Mahrez

Barcelona weigh up Riyad Mahrez bid

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Although Barcelona have put in a bid of €150 million for Philippe Coutinho, Liverpool will probably reject it. Thomas Lemar has rebuffed the Reds, and Liverpool had not considered any other replacement for Coutinho.

But Barca can still tempt them with the money. However, that looks unlikely at the present moment. Hence, the club is looking to go back in Riyad Mahrez. The Algerian FA has released Mahrez to finalise a move to his new club.

Now, it is sure that his new club is not English, as the transfer deadline for Premier League clubs has passed. But Mahrez might be joining Barca. According to the Sun, Mahrez’s club Leicester City have given Barca the go-ahead to swoop in for the attacker.

But nonetheless, Barca should focus on signing Philippe Coutinho.

Barcelona consider Mesut Özil as an alternative to Philippe Coutinho

Because of the many setbacks that the Coutinho deal has endured, Barcelona are considering moving for Arsenal’s Mesut Özil. If Barca cannot sign Coutinho, Özil is the next best option. He is one of the most talented playmakers in the world and can fit in easily at the Camp Nou.

According to Cadena COPE, Barca submitted an enquiry to Arsenal. Apparently, the Gunners replied that the Catalans would need to pay €60 million for the German star. The price is low because Özil is embroiled in a contract dispute with Arsenal and next season, he can leave for free.

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Özil would be a cheaper option, and on a short-term basis, a better option. But yet again, Barca should not submit an offer before the Coutinho deal is ruled out.