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Brazil star Ronaldinho believes Philippe Coutinho is one of the best midfielders in Europe - and would be the “perfect fit” for former club Barcelona.

Coutinho signed a new five-year deal at Anfield in February and recently spoke of his happiness on Merseyside after a season which saw him named in the PFA Team of the Year.

The 22-year-old was also named Player of the Year at Liverpool’s end-of-season awards.

And his performances haven’t escaped the attention of his compatriot Ronaldinho, who has hailed his showings in a Liverpool side which has struggled at times this season.

“Coutinho has had a fantastic season - he has been one of the best midfield players in Europe - and when you think he has been playing in a team that has not been performing well that is an even bigger achievement,” Ronaldinho reportedly said.

“I can’t speak for him and I can’t speak for Barcelona - but I know what Barcelona look for in a player and he has all those qualities.”

IN PICS: Coutinho's Liverpool FC career

The flattering comments from Ronaldinho – who rose to prominence himself as an international playmaker in the early 2000s – are just reward for Coutinho, who has been called up to Brazil’s Copa America squad this summer.

Ronaldinho, now 35 and playing for Mexican club Queretaro FC, spent five years at Camp Nou and believes Coutinho could be a long-term replacement for long-standing duo Xavi and Andres Iniesta.

Xavi left the club this week after 17 years at the club, prompting debate over how Barca will replace him.

“After all those years at the club Xavi has left and Iniestia is now in his 30’s - they will need to address that. That is why I think Barcelona and Coutinho would be the perfect fit,” added Ronaldinho.

“Playing with great players makes you better, I know that. Not only would he win trophies with Barcelona, but playing with Neymar, Messi, Suarez, Iniesta, is going to make him a better player.”