Struggling Barcelona star Philippe Coutinho reportedly has his heart set on a Premier League return, and Arsenal could be his new destination.
Several reports from The Independent claim that Barcelona are willing to send the Brazilian out on loan for another season if his asking price is not met, and it is understood that Arsenal are showing an interest in this deal.
Philippe Coutinho And His Struggles
After tasting personal success at Liverpool under Brendan Rodgers and Jurgen Klopp, Coutinho decided to join the likes of Lionel Messi at Barcelona a couple of years ago. But ever since, his career has seen a downward curve.
He struggled to break into the first team at Camp Nou and was sent on loan to Bayern last season, where he did produce some impressive performances.
The former Inter Milan man has eight goals and six assists in just 15 Bundesliga starts but has struggled to cement a place in the first team
But Coutinho has not done enough for the Germans to make his deal permanent. Now, at 28, he needs to make the right decision if he wants to get his career back on track.
Right Man For Arsenal?
The ability to carry the ball in the midfield and create chances in the final third is something Arsenal have missed dearly under Arteta.
Mesut Ozil could have played a decent role but it does not look like the German will get a lot of playing time under the new manager. So Coutinho could even walk into the first team, lending more balance to Arsenal’s attack
He could play in a number 10 role or on the flank in attack, which could also see the likes of Pierre Emerick-Aubameyang and Alexandre Lacazette shift to the middle.
Coutinho is a top-quality play-maker and his previous experience in England will help him make an immediate impact on the Arsenal side. He will be expensive but his style of play could make Arteta’s system even more dangerous next season.
The Brazilian’s desire to play in England could fend off interest from the likes of PSG and Inter Milan, but Arsenal will still have to work hard for the 28-year-old, who could turn out to be one of the most sought after targets in the transfer market this year.
He adds strength and depth to this Arsenal side but do you think Coutinho is worth the financial hassles Arsenal might have to go through, to bring him to Emirates?
