Transfer Centre

Andres Iniesta, Ivan Rakitic oppose Philippe Coutinho Barcelona move?

By Jonny Whitfield, Reporter | 25 October 2017

Barcelona midfielders Andres Iniesta and Ivan Rakitic reportedly oppose any potential move for Philippe Coutinho to the Spanish giants.

Barcelona midfielders Andres Iniesta and Ivan Rakitic are reportedly opposed to any potential move for Philippe Coutinho to the Spanish giants.

Liverpool midfielder Coutinho expressed his desire to move to Camp Nou in the summer transfer window, but three bids from Barcelona were rejected by the Reds as the Brazilian's hopes of a move were blocked.

According to Diario Gol, Barcelona legend Iniesta and teammate Rakitic have voiced their opposition to the club making further attempts to sign Coutinho.

Barcelona signed former Borussia Dortmund star Ousmane Dembele for €145m (£130m), but the Frenchman has since ruptured a tendon in his thigh and could be sidelined until the New Year.

Rakitic reportedly fears that the arrival of Coutinho could decrease his playing time, with Paulinho, Sergi Roberto, Denis Suarez and Andre Gomes all currently competing for a starting place in Barcelona's midfield.

Coutinho signed a five-year deal at Anfield in January and has scored four goals in all competitions so far this season.