Philippe Coutinho to Tottenham: What we know so far about Barcelona star's shock Premier League return
Tottenham have emerged as the favourites to sign Philippe Coutinho in a sensational loan deal before the transfer window deadline on Thursday.
Coutinho has been deemed surplus to requirements at Camp Nou and Barcelona have been searching to find a buyer for the Brazilian this summer.
However, there have been no takers so far and the La Liga champions may have to settle for a loan option, with a view to a permanent transfer in 2020.
Standard Sport understands Tottenham is his most likely destination as things stand.
Here’s what we know so far...
Who else is interested?
Barcelona have offered Philippe Coutinho to Arsenal, Manchester United and Tottenham ahead of the close of the Premier League transfer window on Thursday.
In Pictures | Tottenham vs Inter Milan | 04/08/2019
Arsenal however are concentrating on defensive reinforcements.
United are not in for the former Liverpool star either and are working on a deal to sign Spurs midfielder Christian Eriksen – Coutinho’s arrival in north London could seal the Dane’s switch to Old Trafford.
Is the deal close?
Spurs are the only side in serious contention to sign Coutinho on loan as things stand – although there is no update yet on personal terms between club and player.
Reports suggest Mauricio Pochettino has been in contact with the player he briefly managed at Espanyol back in 2012 to talk to him about a return to the Premier League.
How much will he cost?
Barcelona are keen on a permanent transfer but are aware they may have to wait until next summer before that happens.
The Times report Barcelona are looking for a loan fee in the region of £21m for Coutinho.
What about the Paulo Dybala deal?
Tottenham are also interested in signing Paulo Dybala from Juventus with some reports in Italy claiming a €70m fee has already been agreed between the two clubs.
Manchester United walked away from talks with the Argentine amid concerns over the forward’s desire to join the club but Tottenham will be hopeful the lure of Champions League football can seal the deal.
