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Oscar Grau affirms Barcelona's wish to sign Coutinho in January
The Barcelona chief executive confirmed that the club is ready to go back in for Liverpool's Philippe Coutinho in January. The Spanish club bid thrice in the summer but Fenway Sports Group (FSG) were unwilling to sell the player at any price.
However, Grau spoke about the strong financial health of Barcelona and validated interest in signing Coutinho:
“We are ready to buy Coutinho in the winter market, or any player the technical staff request."
Mundo Deportivo reports that Coutinho has an agreement with Liverpool. As per the agreement, he will be allowed to leave in January should a bid arrive in return for playing in the Champions League for the Reds. It remains to be seen whether FSG actually sell the player in the coming months.
Barcelona in a battle with Real Madrid for Alvaro Odriozola
Don Balon reports that Barcelona are now interested in Real Sociedad's right-back. The 21-year old has risen through the ranks at Sociedad since joining them as an 11-year old. The Spaniard has become a first-teamer this season and his performances resulted in his international debut last week.
Dani Carvajal's reported pericarditis has brought interest from Real Madrid for the player while Barcelona want competition for Nelson Semedo. The defender reportedly has a €40 million release clause in his contract and both clubs are willing to activate in January.
The rise of Odriozola has been rapid and either club could benefit from signing an upcoming Spanish player.
Southampton looking at Alcacer in January
The English side have struggled for goals this season and Paco Alcacer could offer a good solution. Further, the 24-year old has failed to settle down at Barcelona following his €30 million move in 2016 and is looking for playing time, especially with the World Cup on the horizon.
Ernesto Valverde and Barcelona would also like to cut down on their losses, as per Diario Sport. The report further confirms Southampton's interest and the move could offer a lifeline for the struggling player.
Meanwhile, Crystal Palace are also reported to be interested in the player which could lead to a bidding war for Alcacer's services in January.
