What’s the story?
Barcelona superstar Neymar has reiterated his desire for Brazil teammate Philippe Coutinho to leave Liverpool and join him in La Liga. Speaking at a PokerStars event, for which he is the ambassador, Neymar said, “A Premier League player that I would like to have in Barcelona is Coutinho. I believe Philippe Coutinho is a player that would totally fit in Barcelona.”
Previously
It is no secret that Neymar is a huge admirer of Coutinho, although this is the first time he has been so vocal about his desire to play with his Selecao teammate at Barcelona. The duo tore apart Argentina in a FIFA World Cup qualifier last year as Brazil ran out 3-0 winners. Coutinho has been instrumental for Liverpool recently, which has seen him pick up Brazilian Player of the Year award (Europe) ahead of Neymar.
The heart of the matter
For all of Neymar’s proclamations about Barcelona signing Coutinho, the Liverpool attacker only recently signed a contract with the Premier League club. The Reds have reportedly tied down the Brazilian for a five-year deal, with Coutinho becoming their highest paid player currently at a wage of £150,000 a week.
Also Read: EPL 2016/17: Philippe Coutinho signs new deal with Liverpool
Another wrinkle in Neymar’s desire to see Coutinho don the Blaugrana jersey is that Lionel Messi is reportedly not an admirer of the Liverpool star. The Barcelona pair have already shared their disagreement privately, although this has not affected their relationship, with Neymar revealing that Mess had replaced Robinho as his ‘footballing idol’ at the PokerStars event.
Neymar had also spoken of his desire to eventually play in the Premier League at the same event, which could also provide a pathway for him to play with Coutinho, although whether Liverpool have the financial wherewithal to lure him is unlikely.
Also Read: 5 reasons Philippe Coutinho is perfect for Barcelona
What next?
Even if Neymar desires Coutinho at Barcelona, the likelihood of Barcelona spending a blockbuster amount in this transfer window is unlikely, as there are other deficiencies in the squad to sort out.
Author’s Take
Coutinho may be the ‘perfect fit’ on paper, but there is a danger of Barcelona getting too top-heavy with MSN already on the pitch. Coutinho’s defensive output is nowhere near Andres Iniesta’s level, for those who consider him a long-term replacement.
