Chelsea are ready to rival Manchester United for the services of Barcelona star Philippe Coutinho, it has been reported.
The former Liverpool superstar has failed to make himself a regular fixture under Ernesto Valverde this campaign and big money move in the summer could be on the horizon, according to Express,
As a result, the Blues have made contact with Barcelona regarding the possibility of a switch to Stamford Bridge as they aim to bulk up their creative department next season.
The Blues will, however, have to spend £100 million in the Brazilian international.
Philippe Coutinho’s Barca struggles
Following an impressive debut campaign in the Spanish league last season, it has been a dreadful season for Coutinho, who has mustered just over 1,000 minutes of league action and has fallen behind Ousmane Dembele in Barcelona’s pecking order.
However, the former Liverpool sensation is certainly one of the most gifted playmakers in world football, having averaged 1.7 key passes per 90 minutes this season.
Coutinho’s ability to dissect the opposing defence with his sublime passing and sharp movements were key reasons behind his success with Liverpool.
Though generally an attacking midfielder, Coutinho is also a versatile playmaker, who has often appeared as a left-winger at Barcelona. When operating down the flanks, the 26-year-old loves to cut-inside and find teammates or to produce a deadly strike with his right foot.
Coutinho is blessed with an excellent shooting prowess as he can not only curve the ball into the back of the net but can produce dangerous long-range efforts. He has averaged over three shots per 90 minutes this season, which is more than Chelsea superstar Eden Hazard.
Coutinho to Chelsea would be a smashing move by Sarri
With Real Madrid inching closer to securing the services of Hazard, Chelsea need to make a list of worthy successors. Coutinho, in that respect, is the ideal replacement for Hazard.
The Brazilian international already has the experience of playing in the English top flight, having made over 150 league appearances during his time with Liverpool.
Coutinho’s clever passes coupled with his movement is ideally suited to the fast-paced nature of Maurizio Sarri’s philosophy.
At times this season, Chelsea have struggled for creativity despite having plenty of possession and that’s where Coutinho’s ability would come into play.
Stat courtesy: Whoscored