Would Liverpool part ways with Philippe Coutinho if Barcelona offer Ivan Rakitic in return?

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As speculation mounts that Philippe Coutinho could be on his way out of Merseyside with Barcelona interested, Liverpool fans are praying that the Brazilian stays. The blow of losing him may be softened somewhat if Spanish news outlet Don Balon are accurate, though, as they claim that Barcelona may include midfielder Ivan Rakitic in any deal.

Would Rakitic be a good addition?

The Croatian would undoubtedly be a great addition to the Liverpool midfield. Having missed out on Naby Keita, for this summer at least, the club may still be on the look-out for another addition in the middle of the park.

In Rakitic, Liverpool would have one of the best midfielders in the world, having excelled in Barcelona since joining from Sevilla. With top level experience, he could be the catalyst to lead this Liverpool side to the next level with his impressive creativity and vision from deep in midfield.

Can the Reds afford to allow Coutinho to leave?

The Brazilian was a key man for the side last season and is likely to become even more important next season under Jurgen Klopp. The German is clearly looking to build a team around the attacking midfielder, and it would be a huge blow to his plans to lose their star so close to the start of the season.

That said, if the number ten tries to force a move, they may not have much choice. Whilst he did only sign a five year contract earlier this year, the Reds may be reluctant to keep the player against his will if he looks to force a move away from Anfield.

Should this rumour be trusted?

Don Balon are far from the most reliable source in Spain, and their suggestions have not been picked up by any other major news sources in their home country. Whilst it has gained some traction in the UK, that is likely to be down to the sensational nature of the headline.

Barcelona have not shown any sign of allowing Rakitic to leave this summer, let alone offering him out. Coutinho’s arrival would likely see him take up a more advanced position than Rakitic too, so there is little reason to believe that the speculation is accurate.