Bacelona FC
Philippe Coutinho Not For Sale, Josep Maria Reveals
Barcelona president Josep Maria Bartomeu has revealed that unsettled midfielder Philippe Coutinho is not for sale despite numerous transfer rumours linking him a move away from the club.
The latest development on Coutinho is a big blow to Chelsea who were hoping to explore the option of signing the Brazilian international star when the summer transfer window comes calling.
Josep Maria Bartomeu spoke about Coutinho and his struggles at the club while he was on Spanish radio station Cadena Cope.
The Barca supremo confirmed that Premier League giants Chelsea asked about the price for the player but the Spanish giants were reluctant to sell him.
Apart from Chelsea, Philippe Coutinho has also been linked with a move to Manchester United and Paris Saint Germain (PSG).
Bartomeu also said that the player’s problems at the club could be traced to his position on the field of play.
The 26-year-old has played in both the Neymar (forward) and Andreas Iniesta (midfield) roles at Barcelona but he has not excelled in both positions.
The £142m-rated Brazilian player has been left out of the Barcelona XI on numerous occasions this term as a result of his non-performance.
French World Cup winner Ousmane Dembele is ahead of Coutinho in the forward pecking order at Barcelona
