Liverpool could provide much-needed boost by tying down Coutinho

Soccer Update: Liverpool have opened talks with Philippe Coutinho and his camp regarding a new contract, according to The Telegraph.

Over the past couple of seasons, Coutinho has emerged as a star player for the Reds, arguably the best in the team.

Last season, the Brazilian scored eight Premier League goals and provided five assists in 26 appearances, while in this campaign he netted five and made five before an ankle injury halted his progress.

Coutinho’s ability to influence a game has reportedly caught the attention of Spanish giants Barcelona and Ligue 1 heavyweights Paris Saint-Germain.

However, The Telegraph reports that Liverpool will try to warn off interest from any potential suitors, as they began discussions with Coutinho regarding fresh terms this week.

The 24-year-old, who joined the Merseyside outfit from Inter Milan in 2013, has three years left on his current deal.

If Coutinho signs, is he really committing?

In October, the playmaker’s agent Kia Joorabchian was quoted by the Daily Mail as saying that his client was “extremely happy” at Liverpool.

If he puts pen to paper on a new deal, it would provide a much-needed boost for Liverpool considering that there has been limited activity in the January transfer window.

On the pitch, it has also been disappointing for Jurgen Klopp and his men, as they have won just one of their last six games in all competitions.

If Coutinho commits his future to Liverpool it shows a sign of intent, although one could draw comparisons to Luis Suarez.

The Uruguayan penned a new deal in December 2013 and then joined Barcelona seven months later.

Of course, the circumstances were different – Suarez had a long-running feud with the British media and he tried to orchestrate a Liverpool exit the season before.

The news about Coutinho possibly signing a new deal should be taken for what it is – a huge boost for Liverpool.

However, it is worth keeping in mind that contracts do not necessarily signal long-term commitment.

Category: Football