Philippe Coutinho’s agent confirms he wants Premier League return with Arsenal and Tottenham linked with transfer
PHILIPPE COUTINHO wants a returns to the Premier League, according to his agent.
Kia Joorabchian confirmed the news that the former Liverpool star is eyeing up a return to England, with both Arsenal and Tottenham linked with a move.
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Philippe Coutinho could be heading for a transfer back to EnglandCredit: PA:Press Association
He told talkSPORT: “Because the Champions League is going to run all the way until August 23, I think it will be difficult for players like Coutinho to make any commitment or move until that date.
“He has the Champions League at the moment and they have to qualify for the next round [against Chelsea], and then he could play Barcelona, believe it or not.
“After the Champions League, it’s not been a secret that he wants to come back to the Premier League if he can; he loves playing in the Premier League and is adored in the Premier League.
“It is one of his priorities… but he is also not against staying at Barcelona, so it is very much open.”
It was previously reported that the Barcelona flop was likely to sign for one of Arsenal, Leicester City or Spurs this summer.
On the subject of which clubs were in the frame, he added: “There is much genuine interest in Philippe because he is a great player and a big success. There is always interest.”
Joorabchian fuelled talk of a return to the English top-flight last month.
He discussed Coutinho’s future on talkSport: “We’re still waiting until the season finishes before we start talking about anything in terms of transfers.
“I’ve always said he loves to play in the Premier League.
“He enjoyed his time very much and if the opportunity arises to come back to the Premier League, whether it be this year or in the future, he’s definitely looking at that.”
The Brazilian playmaker has spent the 2019/20 season on loan at Bayern Munich.
He has signed a deal to remain with the German giants for the conclusion of the Champions League in August.
But it appears he has not done enough to secure a permanent move.
The ex-Anfield No10 moved to Barcelona in a massive £142million deal back in January 2018.
But he failed to deliver at the Nou Camp before being shipped out on loan last summer.
And it is unlikely that he will be able to force himself into Quique Setien’s plans and is assessing his options elsewhere, with a return to England high on his wishlist.
Coutinho bagged nine goals and assisted a further eight in 34 Bundesliga appearances this campaign, showing glimpses of his former self.
After Leicester and Spurs both secured Europa League qualification on the Prem’s final day, they are thought to be realistic potential destinations for the 28-year-old.
Reports suggested Coutinho initially turned down an approach from Arsenal over fears they would not stump up his desired wages.
But a move to join Mikel Arteta’s side remains on the cards ahead of the FA Cup final against Chelsea this weekend.
Former Inter Milan man Coutinho is believed to be taking time out to consider his next move before making a decision after the end of Bayern’s European run.
Coutinho ‘considering transfer to Arsenal, Leicester or Tottenham’ with £142m Barcelona flop already negotiating exit More
