Former Liverpool midfielder Philippe Coutinho is set to return to the Premier League if Bayern Munich fail to activate their purchase option on the Brazilian at the end of his loan spell.
The Brazilian’s future at Barcelona is all but over with the club looking to move him on permanently next summer. He has experienced a mixed season in the Bundesliga on loan as he aims to convince Bayern to activate their €120m purchase option at the end of the campaign.
Coutinho struck a hat-trick and two assists in a recent masterclass against Werder Bremen. He has now scored six goals and provided five assists in 15 Bundesliga games, as well as finding the net once in the Champions League.
But if they opt against the big-money move, Mundo Deportivo reports that Coutinho would look for a return to England after interest from Manchester United and Tottenham last summer. Chelsea are also said to be keen on a move now their transfer ban has been lifted.
Barcelona are confident they can land at least €100m (£86m) for his signature as long as he finishes the season strongly. Despite having a move to the Premier League in his sights, Coutinho stated he is open to extending his stay in Bayern Munich in a recent interview.
“I’m very comfortable,” he said. “I plan to stay here for the year and I’m focused on my time here.
“If everything fits, then I’d love to stay.”
Coutinho also revealed how he is enjoying his football under Hans-Dieter Flick, who took over as caretaker boss from Niko Kovac in early November.
“We understand his way of training and playing well,” he explained.
“Things are going well because of that.
“Flick makes everyone feel important and we’re happy, but we know there’s a lot of work to do.”
