TFF loves the team ethic that Jurgen Klopp has instilled at Liverpool. Although there are some wonderful individuals at the club – with the likes of Coutinho, Mane and Lallana chief amongst them – their is a genuine feeling that you are watching a unit when they take to the field.
But if you had to cherry pick one player from that squad many to most couldn’t look any further than Philippe Coutinho. The 24-year-old Brazilian is arguably the most dangerous player in the team with his pace, technique and movement between the lines. He is the perfect modern forward with his adaptability, intelligence and goal scoring prowess.
He’s been so successful at Liverpool that there has been constant speculation over the last year that Barcelona are interested in the player. You can’t go much bigger than Liverpool but Barcelona has been home to so many great Brazilians over the years and there must be some temptation from the player to ply his trade in the warmer climes of Spain.
But, in excellent news for Liverpool fans, reports today state that a new contract is on the table and that talks are underway.
Local media outlet, The Liverpool Echo, states:
Liverpool open contract talks with Philippe Coutinho
Reds look to reward Brazilian for outstanding form this season
Even though Coutinho’s current contract doesn’t expire until 2020 Liverpool seem keen to improve his terms to stave off interest from other clubs and keep the Brazilian happy.
Coutinho has scored 35 goals in 162 games since he moved from Inter in 2013. At international level he has been similarly productive with six goals in 23 games since his debut way back in 2010.
But it’s his creativity as much as his goal scoring ratio that makes him such a valuable player for club and country. And at 24 he has to be one of the most valuable players in the modern game.