Coutinho joins the red and blues!

The Catalonian side FC Barcelona had a poor 2016-17 season, coming 2nd in La Liga and winning the Copa del Rey. While this would be impressive for most clubs, it is awful for the two-time treble winners. They had a great pre-season, winning the International Champions Cup, mostly thanks to Brazilian playmaker Neymar Jr. However, with Neymar’s departure to PSG, Barcelona have become desperate to sign a player that can fill Neymar’s boots and a replacement for an ageing Iniesta. Every club knows how much money Barcelona have and are overcharging them for everything, making it difficult for them to sign quality players for a reasonable price.

At first, Barcelona had 3 bids rejected by Liverpool - a £72 million, a £118 million and a £138 million bid, Barcelona upped their offer to £160 million for Phillipe Coutinho. Liverpool earlier claimed they were constantly insisting the Brazilian wasn’t for sale and if he was to be sold, it would be because they would have found a replacement. With Liverpool recently signing Alex Ox-Chamberlin and on the verge of signing Naby Keïta, Liverpool decided to let Coutinho go by his will, for £160 million pounds. Although the deal has been confirmed, Liverpool told Barça they would have to stay shut about this deal because they don’t want to be overcharged for Keita or Lemar - two possible replacements for Coutinho. Coutinho has agreed on a modest € 180,000 a week salary, excluding bonuses.