Liverpool star Philippe Coutinho would now turn down a move to Barcelona should the La Liga side return for the Brazilian in January, reports Don Balon.
Coutinho was subject to intense speculation linking him with a move to the Blaugrana over the summer, though Liverpool stood firm in their decision to retain the services of the Brazil international.
Barcelona lodged three bids for Coutinho, offering in excess of £100m for the 25-year-old, despite Liverpool’s insistence that he would not be sold for any price.
Reports suggest the La Liga giants will return for Coutinho in January, but Don Balon believe the player would now turn down a move to Camp Nou in favour of an Anfield stay.
The Spanish publication suggests that Coutinho is reeling from Barcelona’s lack of effort to sign him during the summer transfer window, with the former Inter attacker keen on a switch to Spain earlier in the year.
If that is to be true, it will come as boost for Liverpool, who are set to be without Sadio Mane for the next three Premier League matches after his red card in their disappointing 5-0 loss at Manchester City on Saturday.
