Liverpool’s Philippe Coutinho is the best midfielder in Europe, says Xavi

Liverpool's Philippe Coutinho is currently the best midfielder in Europe, according to Xavi

Xavi believes Philippe Coutinho is currently the best midfielder in Europe and says Liverpool have a "real chance" of winning the Premier League this season.

The 24-year-old has been linked with a move to La Liga following his exceptional start to the campaign and former Barcelona midfielder Xavi thinks the Brazilian would suit the Nou Camp club's philosophy.

However, he also thinks Coutinho is at the right club in Liverpool and is playing under the right coach in Jurgen Klopp as he looks to continue his development.

Xavi praised both Coutinho and Liverpool boss Jurgen Klopp

"Coutinho is a player I have always thought is special - but under Klopp he has gone up another level," Xavi told Goal. "On form there are not any better midfield players in Europe.

"He has always shown quality but now he is consistently playing well and that is good news for Liverpool if they want to really challenge for the title.

Xavi won four Champions League titles at Barcelona

"He is playing under one of the most intelligent coaches in Europe. Klopp has a lot of experience at developing world-class players, so it is a good club for him to be at."

World Cup winner Xavi is of the belief that Coutinho is one of the few players in football who could actually improve Barcelona's squad but insists there is no rush for a move to Catalonia, instead advising the playmaker to focus on Liverpool's title challenge.

Xavi says Coutinho would fit in at Barcelona alongside fellow Brazilian Neymar

"When you play at the level he is there is always going to be talk, but for now he needs to ignore all that and stay focused, because I think Liverpool have a real chance this season," he said.

"There are not many players that can improve Barcelona, but if you are asking me if he is one of them, on this form, I think he is. Technically he is very good. He would suit Barcelona's philosophy well."

Upgrade to Sky Sports now to watch Man Utd v Arsenal this Saturday and get the first six months half price!