Philippe Coutinho is reportedly set for crisis talks with Barcelona manager Ernesto Valverde, amid interest from Manchester United and Chelsea.
According to a report by Spanish outlet Sport, Ernesto Valverde is set to hold talks with Philippe Coutinho over his recent worrying form amid widespread speculation over his Barcelona future. The Brazilian playmaker is the subject of interest from Premier League rivals Manchester United and Chelsea.
Coutinho has been spiralling downwards over the course of this season after a strong start to his stint at Barcelona last year. In the current campaign, however, the Brazilian international boasts a modest record of six goals and five assists in 29 appearances across all competitions.
His poor form has also seen Ousmane Dembele usurp Coutinho in the pecking order, all of which has resulted in his Barcelona future being called into question. But, interest in the player has only increased despite his indifferent performances, with Manchester United and Chelsea eyeing a possible move.
At Manchester United, Coutinho could fill in various roles, with the player capable of playing on either side of attack as well as midfield equally adeptly, making him a viable target for the current setup. The player would also fit in Mauricio Pochettino’s system.
Should the Argentine be appointed as the next permanent manager at Old Trafford, Coutinho is someone who could complete his attacking unit at Manchester United. Meanwhile, Chelsea too, could do well to swoop Coutinho away from Barcelona.
The Brazilian international could potentially replace Mateo Kovacic in the midfield, if the Croat does not join Chelsea on a permanent deal. Alternatively, he could slot in as an attacker as well, should Eden Hazard and Callum Hudson-Odoi end up calling it quits at Stamford Bridge.
In recent weeks, it was reported that Manchester United and Chelsea would stand a good chance at landing the player, with Barcelona reportedly prepared to sell him. But, Ernesto Valverde is instead focusing on getting the player’s career back on track.
The Barcelona boss is planning to hold a crisis talk with the 26-year-old over his form, with the hopes that he can find a solution to end his struggles. Valverde is of the opinion that an in-form Coutinho can set the tone for the Blaugrana’s return to European football summit.
As per the report, it looks like Barcelona do not intend to sell Coutinho, instead prioritising his return to form. A January move is out of the question anyway, although it remains to be seen if Manchester United or Chelsea can land the Brazilian playmaker in the summer, should his struggles continue.