Liverpool manager, Jurgen Klopp has declared Philippe Coutinho is not for sale despite reported £70m interest from Barcelona.
Coutinho, who signed a new five-year contract with Liverpool last January, is reportedly wanted by Barcelona to replace midfield maestro, Andres Iniesta, who heads into the final year of his contract with the Catalan giants.
When asked if the Brazilan is not for sale, Klopp said: “Yes, that’s what you can say, but that’s not since this morning or yesterday, I’m not sure it was different at any time.”
“I’m not surprised that any club is interested in players…But, a very important message – maybe we’re not a selling club.”
Brazilian stat leaders in the Premier League:
Most goals: Philippe Coutinho (34)
Most assists Philippe Coutinho (29)Samba magic. ?? pic.twitter.com/8RW8N9V3z3
— Squawka Football (@Squawka) July 21, 2017
The Brazilain midfielder scored 23 goals and provided 7 assists in the Premier League last season, despite spending six weeks out with an injured ankle.
Klopp continued: “Phil is a very, very important player, but we need to react better when he’s not on the pitch, that’s how it is.”
“He was out for a few games (last season) and when he came back, he was not in the best shape to get back into his rhythm. With his quality, he has all the pressure to do it on the pitch. We have to be better in moments like this.”
