Liverpool want Barcelona ace as part of Coutinho deal

Liverpool want Barcelona ace as part of Coutinho deal

Ivan Rakitic is on Liverpool’s radar

Liverpool are determined to hold onto Philippe Coutinho this summer, but they’re still preparing for the possibility that he leaves to ensure they’re not caught out. Barcelona are understood to be ready to spend over £100m to sign Coutinho, but at this stage of the transfer window, Liverpool’s options to sign a replacement would be limited.

Instead of receiving a huge transfer fee, the Reds would reportedly rather have Ivan Rakitic included as part of any deal. Rakitic can play in central midfield or in an advanced role and Jurgen Klopp believes he would form a good understanding with Jordan Henderson and Emre Can.

The 29-year-old has 83 caps for Croatia and he’s been a key player for Barcelona since arriving in 2014. He helped the Catalan giants to win the treble in his first year at Camp Nou, followed by another La Liga title, Copa del Rey twice and the FIFA Club World Cup.

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