Barcelona transfer news: Klopp discusses Coutinho price, Messi backs Pique about attacker and more -  2nd December 2017

Klopp refutes claims about Coutinho's price

As the January transfer window approaches, Barcelona's pursuit of Liverpool's no.10 is picking up pace once again, in the papers at least. The Blaugrana are set to up their bid in January after three previous ones were rejected in the summer by the Reds' owners, Fenway Sports Group (FSG).

Recently, rumours of Liverpool quoting a price for the Brazilian were doing the rounds with Spanish outlet, Mundo Deportivo stating the English side have set a €145 million price tag for selling the player in January. Right on cue, reporters shot the question across to Jurgen Klopp in his pre-match press conference. The Liverpool boss rebuffed such claims and said:

Named a price? Interesting. There is absolutely nothing to say about this. Of course Phil is still essential for us. Should we stop thinking about him in the moment just because there are more stories about him in the newspapers in Spain?"

Respected journalist and writer, Guillem Balague, supported Klopp's statements when he was asked regarding the same in his Sky Sports Q&A. Balague answered:

“It’s being said in the Catalan press that Liverpool have a price they would like for Coutinho but that is a lie. No price has been put forward and, as it stands, Liverpool’s position has not changed.”

While a deal could still happen in the coming year, current reports can be considered to be far-fetched attempts by the press. For now, Barcelona needs to stay put till the window opens.

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Pique wants Gerard Deulofeu sold

Deulofeu has not set the world alight this season

The former La Masia graduate could not nail down a starting spot in the Barcelona XI and subsequently spent time away from Camp Nou at Everton, Sevilla and Milan, starting from 2015. The winger was brought back into the fold this summer after Ernesto Valverde became the manager.

While the 23-year old has not set the world alight, he has been a decent addition to the squad with 2 goals and 3 assists in 16 appearances in all competitions. However, 'decent' is not good enough for a club of Barcelona's stature and expectedly, senior players at the club want the player out, as per Don Balon.

The report claims Gerard Pique is among the biggest voices in the dressing room wanting to see the Spaniard sold to a club where he can play regularly. Further, the centre-back has the backing of the most influential figure in the squad - Lionel Messi.

The Argentine shares Pique's opinion on Deulofeu and prefers playing with Paco Alcacer or Luis Suarez over the 23-year old in the front three. Thus, the winger's permanent exit looks to be on the cards, as per Don Balon but it will be more likely in the summer than January.

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Leon Goretzka to decide on future in January

Leon Goretzka is set to decide on his future in January

The Schalke star is set to become a free-agent next summer which implies he can sign a pre-contract with foreign clubs from January. The German international is one of the best midfielders in world football and is wanted by several clubs across Europe.

Barcelona are reportedly front-runners for the player's signature with the player himself interested in the move. Juventus chief, Beppe Marotta, recently confirmed the Italian side's interest while English sides Manchester United and Arsenal are in for the player as well. Meanwhile, Schalke are trying to keep the player by offering him a bumper contract of £10.7 million-a-year in wages.

Schalke CEO Christian Heidel came out to clarify on Goretzka's future and he told Ruhr Nachrichten:

"Although we have set no time, I believe that Leon will decide in the winter. It seems to be so that other clubs are interested and they will not wait until June 29 [when Goretzka's contract expires]. The positive development the team is currently undergoing will certainly not worsen our situation."

If Heidel's words are to be considered, then a decision is imminent and Barcelona will be hoping they have done all the necessary work to lure Goretzka to Camp Nou.