Philippe Coutinho reportedly nearly reunited with Mauricio Pochettino at Southampton

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It appears Tottenham Hotspur are in the hunt for Philippe Coutinho, even if there are differing reports on their apparent interest. 

Barcelona have reportedly informed the Brazilian he can leave the club on loan this summer. Numerous sources in Spain and England are now reporting the news, with Sky Sports suggesting Tottenham are the favourites to sign the £142m attacker on loan. 

The Independent’s Miguel Delaney has poured cold water over the reports, but Tottenham fans can still get excited over a potential deal. 

Coutinho would be an excellent replacement for Christian Eriksen, should the Dane make a move to Manchester United this week. 

Of course, there is previous between Tottenham boss Mauricio Pochettino and Coutinho. The Spurs boss was his manager for a brief period at Espanyol. In fact, the Argentine even tried to bring him to Southampton.

Coutinho was at the Catalan club on loan from Inter Milan. After failing to earn regular football at the San Siro, the Brazilian was looking for a new club once again in January 2013. 

Pochettino was now in charge at Southampton and they very nearly secured Coutinho’s services. 

Former Southampton chairman Nicola Cortese told talkSPORT that the Saints nearly signed Coutinho, not long after Pochettino was appointed at St Mary’s. 

As reported by The Sun, a £10.3 million deal was agreed for the player. However, Coutinho wanted a move to Anfield and ended up at Liverpool. 

Once again, it seems Pochettino wants to lure Coutinho into his command. Tottenham fans will no doubt hope he manages to get his man on this occasion.