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Transfer rumours as Philippe Coutinho to Barcelona for £130m is “very, very close”

Alex Rea

11:39 03/01/2018

The transfer window is now open!

Here, we take a look at the biggest stories dominating the headlines today.

Will any of the following deals happen?

Let us know your thoughts.

Get in touch via Twitter and Facebook.

PHILIPPE COUTINHO

Philippe Coutinho has played his last game for Liverpool as Spanish outlet Sport have claimed a switch to Barcelona is “very, very close”.

The 25-year-old wasn’t in the squad for the Red’s 2-1 win over Burnley on New Year’s Day and is said to be reluctant to play so to avoid picking up an injury ahead of a move to Camp Nou.

RATING: 8/10

VERDICT

The rhetoric regarding Coutinho is changing every day with reports in England suggesting Liverpool will sell at £130million and outlets in Spain claiming the deal is all-but completed.

Barca are said to be increasingly confident of getting a deal over the line in January and at this point it’s probably in the best interests of all parties to have it completed as soon as possible. Another protracted transfer between Liverpool and the Catalan giants appears to be reaching its end.

SERGEJ MILINKOVIC-SAVIC

Manchester United target Sergej Milinkovic-Savic has ruled out leaving Lazio.

The Serbia international is one of the most in-demand young midfielders in Europe with the Red Devils said to be planning a £95million offer.

However, speaking to Novosti he said: “I don’t think about leaving Lazio, because I’m very happy in Rome.”

RATING: 6/10

VERDICT

The 22-year-old forms the fulcrum of Simone Inzaghi’s side having scored five goals in 17 Serie A appearances and with Lazio pushing for a Champions League spot it seems the likes of United and Paris Saint-Germain will be forced to bide their time.

Staying put: Lazio midfielder Sergej Milinkovic-Savic

ARDA TURAN

Barcelona forward Arda Turan has been offered to AC Milan and Everton, according to Mundo Deportivo.

The Turkey international is well out of favour at Cam Nou and is yet to make a single appearance this season.

RATING: 7/10

VERDICT

Besiktas are also said to be interested in signing the 30-year-old who will be desperate to get some first-team football back under his belt.

The winger’s agent has been speaking to clubs around Europe but it remains to be seen as to which club will bite.

Arda Turan in action against Man United in pre-season

 

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