14 Nov 2016 09:32:55
I got a text message the other week regarding Barcelona citing a move for young Phil Coutinho possibly next summer. Now, whilst that is probably NOT news to most of you what followed certainly got me thinking. The lady who sent me this message has no reason to lie, in fact her contacts within the German game are far too credible to discount her.
The news is Barcelona originated but stems from The Bayern Munchen camp with Thiago Alacantara claiming to people within the club his brother Rafinha has been courted by Liverpool. I understand contact was made this summer and the feelers went out regarding a transfer to LFC before of course we signed Wijnaldum. Certain claims are being made that Barcelona are willing to offer up Rafinha as part of a deal for Coutinho this summer and another player could also be engineered into a deal (My hunch here is Aleix Vidal) .
Anyway take this as you will, this being a 'rumours page' I thought it would give you guys something to digest.
Ed002, if you can elaborate any more that would be excellent. I understand Rafinha wasn't mentioned on your podcast though (smashing job by the way) .
Cheers.
{Ed002's Note - Rafinha was indeed a player looked at by Liverpool (and Manchester United, Arsenal and PSG) but that was in 2013/2014 when he was at Celta and it was not clear if he would get an opportunity at Barcelona. He went on to be a regualr player in the team and aside from losing most of last season to injury he has continued as a regularly used player. He also primarily plays in the same position as mane who I doubt that Liverpool will be looking to put on the bench so I cannot see why he would think of leaving Barcelona for Liverpool. If Liverpool have made contact with the player that would be a potentially significant issue as the club has sailed far to close to tapping up issues in the summer (with the authorities already informed of this). I am not aware of Barcelona considering offering the player as part of any deal for Coutinho.}
14 Nov 2016 12:46:56
Thanks Ed002, I will take what I have been told with a pinch of salt.
Cheers.
14 Nov 2016 17:18:08
A woman doesn't need a reason to lie Blair. 😄.
15 Nov 2016 03:58:49
Maybe lie to impress, Ron?