Report: Liverpool could be tempted by Philippe Coutinho return; Barcelona will pay 50% of wages

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Liverpool are once again being linked with a move for Barcelona midfielder, Philippe Coutinho, but this time there is a catch.

Coutinho seems to get linked with a return to Anfield in almost every window. But usually, it’s just paper talk and an easy narrative to follow given his success at the club.

However, the Daily Mail have reported that Coutinho is once again potentially on Liverpool’s radar. And this time, there is a realistic chance of the Reds being tempted, thanks to Barcelona.

Bargain

The Mail claim that Barca are so desperate to offload the Brazilian that they will even pay 50% of his wages. That would open the door for Liverpool, who are still looking for another attacking player this summer.

Reports have suggested he is on around £150k-a-week in Spain. It means the Reds could get Coutinho for just £75k-a-week. That figure, although big enough in itself, is some way off the top earners at Anfield.

Coutinho has never hit the form he showed for the Reds since leaving. He’s struggled in the main at the Nou Camp, and was farmed out to Bayern Munich as well.

The 29-year-old, then, could welcome a return back to England.

A risk worth taking for Liverpool?

Look, there is an element of risk and reward with going for Coutinho again for Jurgen Klopp.

His form is so off that he’d need a big kick to get going again. But, at just £75k-a-week, it could be a gamble worth taking for Liverpool. If there is one manager who is going to get the best from Coutinho, it is Klopp.

The Reds started well at Norwich. But with Mane and Salah both going away in January for the African Cup of Nations, landing Coutinho might be a sound option for the season.