Bayern Munich have decided against buying Philippe Coutinho from Barcelona, meaning they will have to hunt for another buyer this summer.
As per the Express, Newcastle United has entered the frame to sign Philippe Coutinho from Barcelona and are touted to be the favourites to land the Brazilian. However there is an ‘if’ to this. The deal is only likely to go through if the takeover by Saudi Prince Mohammed bin Salam is complete.
More from FC Barcelona News
- Barça boss Xavi to get contract extension
- FC Barcelona planning swoop for Arsenal midfielder
- FC Barcelona tracking 20-year-old goal machine
- Lamine Yamal’s involvement causing tension at FC Barcelona
- How can Xavi unlock Joao Felix for FC Barcelona?
The Saudi Crown Prince is closing in on a 300 million pound takeover of the club and he intends to come in place of the controversial owner in Mike Ashley. This project would mean more money for the club.
It is believed that once the takeover is complete, the plans in place are to replace Steve Bruce with ex-Tottenham boss, Mauricio Pochettino. Following which, their first blockbuster signing in Coutinho will be introduced. Pochettino coached the former Liverpool superstar back in 2011-12 season with Espanyol.
With the coronavirus bringing a halt to most business globally, Pochettino and Coutinho going to Newcastle potentially will take some time and may drag on for a couple of months.
Besides the Brazil international, the rumours of Arturo Vidal being at St. James’ Park have started doing the rounds as well. However, in order for that to happen, Newcastle would need to hire former Juventus boss Massimiliano Allegri.
Philippe Coutinho was a failed experiment for the Blaugrana and now it’s pretty evident that the Catalan giants are looking for a way to get rid off him off their payroll. It should be believed that Barcelona are aiming at a fee of £100 million for the winger but owing to the COVID-19 pandemic’s impact on football and economy, they might be just willing to settle for a temporary transfer for the time being.
Barcelona’s reserves have taken a massive hit just like any other club and it is natural that they try and recover their losses. One should keep in mind that they are planning to bring in _Neymar_ and Lautaro Martinez into the club and both the deals require a huge amount of money. Selling off Coutinho is a strategic move in itself Barcelona shouldn’t accept anything less than £100 million.
How much do you think Philippe Coutinho is worth in the current state of the market?