Liverpool boss Jurgen Klopp has revealed he welcomes Barcelona interest in Philippe Coutinho as he sees it as a positive thing but is not concerned by it.
Speculation linking the Brazilian international with a move to the Nou Camp refuses to go away, despite the fact that he signed a new long-term contract with the Reds in January.
With 10 goals and eight assists in 30 appearances in all competitions this season, coupled with his style of play and how many deem it perfect for Barca, it’s no real surprise that rumours are ongoing with the likes of compatriot Neymar talking up the move too.
Ordinarily, you would expect the manager hoping to keep hold of his star player to be defiant and dismissive, but Klopp has taken a different approach as ultimately he seems very confident that he doesn’t need to be concerned over a Coutinho exit any time soon.
“Actually, I think it’s positive when there is interest,” Klopp said, as reported by ESPN FC. “It shows it’s good. I am not concerned because I think Phil fits really well and comfortably here.
“That’s wonderful for us. I am not concerned, actually, because we give the boys enough perspective that they really want to be part of this for the next few years.”
With Liverpool firmly in the race to finish in the Premier League top four, it would be a huge achievement for the German tactician to secure their place in the Champions League next season if you stack their spending up against some of their rivals.
Coutinho will likely be pivotal between now and the end of the season, and from a Reds perspective, many supporters will undoubtedly be hoping that the Brazilian playmaker remains at Anfield for years to come to continue to lead their progress both domestically and in Europe.