Coutinho is Barcelona's top transfer target in the remaining weeks of the window following the sale of Neymar to Paris Saint Germain last week. A £72million bid was made and swiftly rejected by Liverpool but Barcelona are understood to be considering increasing their offer. Reports in Spain claimed a deal for Coutinho was close but the Spanish football expert has dismissed these claims. Balague tweeted: “Catalan press should stop using the 'it's a matter of hours' in regards of Coutinho transfer. These are the reasons...

Liverpool fans suggest replacements for Philippe Coutinho Tue, August 8, 2017 Click to reveal Liverpool fans' suggestions to replace Philippe Coutinho Play slideshow Twitter 1 of 9

“LFC not heard at all from FCB since that offer they received while in Hong Kong. They insist they not selling and no plans for meetings. “FCB have strategy based in patience but also admit that if it's not Coutinho it will be another one. And that they won't overspend on him. “Coutinho has NOT handed a transfer request, has a back injury and still behaving impeccably according to club.” The claims by Balague will provide comfort for Liverpool fans worried about losing their star player. Yesterday, Liverpool legend Steven Gerrard said Coutinho would have to create a "war" if he wanted to leave Liverpool.

PA Philippe Coutinho's Liverpool future is uncertain