Why it’s Couti- NO to ex-Liverpool star

WE’RE only a week into the January transfer window, and we’ve already had perhaps the most ridiculous transfer rumour of them all.

Reports broke on Monday suggesting United could make a move for former Liverpool midfielder Philippe Coutinho this month.

And now, some bookies have made the Reds favourites to sign the player.

Yes that’s right, United. The team who have already confessed business is unlikely this month, who don’t have a permanent manager in place, and who need to desperately sign a centre-back. Other than that, all good.

Firstly it is important to note the gossip first emerged in the wake of another fine Barcelona win at the weekend, a victory for which Coutinho started on the bench.

The 26-year-old, who cost a staggering £142m last January, is still not an established first-teamer at Barcelona and has recently lost his place to Arturo Vidal and Ousmane Demebele in recent weeks.

So perhaps it is understandable to link the midfielder with a move away to United, particularly when they are the biggest side in the world.

Real Madrid are out of the discussion by association while Paris SaintGermain have their own financial conundrums to worry about. But, even if Coutinho was available would a move to the Reds really appeal?

As previously mentioned, the Brazil international is not needed. While he is an exceptional talent the case for a new defensive signing has been long called for, and United can not afford to be distracted yet again.

Equally, the midfielder plays his best football in two positions United have covered already. Anthony Martial is the best left winger at the club and has Alexis Sanchez for support, while Paul Pogba is the left-sided midfielder and is now loving life at Old Trafford.

Ole Gunnar Solskjaer sheepishly admitted he would have ‘input’ on any additions, but even an attacker like him knows the key to success this season lies with reinforcing his defence. Elsewhere, we have the obvious Liverpool connection.

While it would be fantastic to see the Anfield faithful riled by such a transfer, what would such treachery say about the asset United would be theoretically attaining? Would Solskjaer really wish to taint such improved squad harmony with a player disloyal to a club who admittedly revived his stagnant career?

Furthermore on that point Liverpool also get financial benefits from any such resale and any transfer fee would indirectly be funding Jurgen Klopp’s title charge this season, no thanks.

But lastly, why on earth would a club like Barcelona wish to sell a prized asset like Coutinho? Sure, he might not be the same alien talent as Lionel Messi, but this is a player with worldwide pulling power.

It feels like Coutinho is at the same crossroads Pogba was only months ago. For Barcelona the solution is to embrace the phenomenal talent they have in their possession, not sell him to the highest bidder going.

Coutinho, the wild fling was fun, but it’s time to part ways.