Brendan Rodgers has already added Daniel Sturridge to his squad this January and he has his eyes set on more young attacking talent in the form of Inter Milan’s Philippe Coutinho.
Brazilian attacker Coutinho fits the category of young, high potential and possible re-sale value that Liverpool’s owners the Fenway Sports Group (FSG) have deemed most suitable for adding to the squad at Anfield.
Coutinho started his career with Brazilian side Vasco Da Gama before being signed by Inter for €4 million at the age of 16, although the Italian side allowed Coutinho to stay with Vasco Da Gama until his 18th birthday in 2010.
On arrival at the San Siro in July 2010 the club’s chairman, Massimo Moratti, declared “Coutinho is the future of Inter”. In his first season in Italy Coutinho became a regular in Rafael Benitez’s side, playing 11 Serie A games, but following the Spanish manager’s departure first team opportunities came les often.
The 2011/12 season started in similar vein, playing just 5 games before being loaned out to Spanish side Espanyol in the January transfer window for the rest of the season. During his spell with the La Liga outfit Coutinho played 16 league games and contributed with 5 goals.
The 20 year old returned to Inter in the summer and has seen limited playing time gain this season, making just 5 Serie A appearances although he has played 6 times in the Europa League and scored twice.
Liverpool have been linked with an £8 million move for the Brazilian who would certainly bring some of the flair that comes so naturally with Brazilians. The ability to play anywhere along the front line as well as behind the forwards gives Coutinho the flexibility any manager adores in a skilful player.
If Liverpool do land Coutinho their fans can expect plenty of tricks, flicks and dribbling from a midfielder that loves to get forward and contribute with goals.
Sam Jewell