Philippe Coutinho leaves Liverpool training ground as Barcelona speculation gathers pace
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Liverpool star Philippe Coutinho has left the club's training base at Melwood as speculation surrounding his future gathers pace.
The Brazilian has handed in a transfer request at Anfield in a bid to try and force through a move to Barcelona, who are keen to splash in the region of £100million to lure him to the Nou Camp.
Barca have a sum almost double that size burning a hole in their pocket after Neymar joined Paris Saint-Germain.
Coutinho has been left out of the Reds' squad for their crunch Champions League qualifier in Hoffenheim on Tuesday evening.
(Image: CHRIS NEILL/MAVERICK PHOTOGRAPHY)
(Image: PA Wire)
Boss Jurgen Klopp will speak to the press ahead of the first leg of the must-win tie later today.
Barcelona legend Rivaldo has backed Coutinho to fill the void left by Neymar, should he make the switch to Catalunya.
He told Betfair : "Neymar left for PSG and, despite his importance at the team, I believe Barça will deal with it, and could even reinforce his team spirit, trying to show that players can come and go, but Barça will stay at the top.
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"For Barcelona [Neymar's sale is] an important financial income that allows them to breathe much easier and also to try new signings.
"Philippe Coutinho could be a good option to play at Neymar’s position, but Paulinho could also be an important addition at the centre of the pitch."
Rivaldo added: "It was a tough decision for the Brazilian star and his main objective – beside the financial aspect – is to become the best player in the world, leaving his status as Messi’s shadow."