Barcelona have abandoned their efforts to sign Philippe Coutinho before the transfer window closes in Spain tonight. 

The Catalans were hoping that Liverpool would agree to a late deal to hand Coutinho a dream move to the Camp Nou, which the midfielder has been pushing to make happen.




But according to Catalan daily Sport, Barcelona have now thrown in the towel on efforts to sign Coutinho as Liverpool are sticking to their hardline stance.

The Reds are not prepared to listen to any offers for Coutinho and are determined he will not be sold.

 


Coutinho has done all he can to force through the switch, handing in a transfer request and also not playing for Liverpool so far this season, though the Reds have maintained he is injured; he has been fit enough to play for Brazil on international duty.

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Now Coutinho faces the awkward prospect of having to return to Liverpool after the international break.

The midfielder had been determined to leave Anfield, but Liverpool are insisting he stays put.

Barcelona had told Coutinho it was now or never for a transfer and it remains to be seen if they do return.