FC Barcelona are trying to bring Philippe Coutinho back from his loan at Bayern Munich after only half a season, according to a new report. This, because they have been told that Bayern will not use their purchase option, valued at 120 million euro, at the end of the season, meaning the player will return to the Camp Nou soon anyway.

The transfer will be difficult, if not impossible, to pull off, the report says, but it’s something Barça are willing to try as their other attempts to bring fresh blood into the team have been so far unsuccessful.

Coutinho could benefit from the appointment of Quique Setién as Barcelona coach, who would perhaps give him a new role in a new formation, and within a philosophy that better suits his strengths than the one employed by former manager Ernesto Valverde.

Barcelona are in danger of not signing anyone after pursuing several options during the winter transfer window. The team has let go of a few prospects so far this window, but has yet to bring in a first team player.