Since Neymar’s transfer to PSG for a whopping €222m, Barcelona is aggressively looking to replace the Brazilian star, many names are making rounds like Dortmund’s youngster Dembele, Monaco’s Mbappe but Coutinho seems to be Barcelona’s top target. 

A £72million bid was made and was rejected by Liverpool, with Red’s manager stating that their star man is ‘not for sale’ and will be Liverpool player for the upcoming season.

It is understood that Barcelona will test Liverpool by increasing the offer and 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 to Coutinho transfer. These are the reasons...

“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 has a strategy based on 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 the club.”

The claim by Balague will provide much-needed comfort for Liverpool fans who were worried about losing their star player.