Philippe Coutinho – This is one of the most trending names in the world of football right now. The Liverpool star has been on fire for both club and country this season, something that has made him a top transfer target for many European clubs.
La Liga giants Barcelona are said to be the club reading the race to sign the 24-year-old. Although it is very unlikely that the former Inter Milan man will leave Anfield in January, a big-money summer move seems possible.
And now, Barcelona midfield legend Xavi Hernandez has joined the list of many stars who have heaped praise on the midfield magician who is well-known of his wonder goals. In an interview with Goal, Xavi is quoted as saying:
“Coutinho is a player I have always thought is special - but under Klopp he has gone up another level. On form there are not any better midfield players in Europe.
“He has always shown quality but now he is consistently playing well and that is good news for Liverpool if they want to really challenge for the title.
“He is playing under one of the most intelligent coaches in Europe. Klopp has a lot of experience at developing world-class players, so it is a good club for him to be at.”
And he did not hesitate to let the world know that he was rooting for the Liverpool midfielder to join Barca. He added:
“When you play at the level he is there is always going to be talk, but for now he needs to ignore all that and stay focused, because I think Liverpool have a real chance this season.
“There are not many players that can improve Barcelona, but if you are asking me if he is one of them, on this form, I think he is. Technically he is very good. He would suit Barcelona's philosophy well.”
So far this season, Coutinho has scored six goals and provided six assists in all competitions for the Merseyside outfit. He has also been linked with a move to Real Madrid but there have been no contact between the two parties.
