Report: Barcelona outcast Coutinho offered to Arsenal on loan

Philippe Coutinho's representatives approached Arsenal to determine whether the club was interested in signing the Brazilian on loan, according to the Guardian's Fabrizio Romano.

However, the Gunners reportedly informed Giuliano Bertolucci and Kia Joorabchian that they're focused on adding a central defender in the final days of the Premier League's transfer window.

Crosstown rivals Tottenham, on the other hand, are keen on a deal for the out-of-favor Barcelona midfielder, sources told ESPN FC's Julien Laurens and Moises Llorens. Coutinho could end up replacing Christian Eriksen if the Dane departs for Manchester United by Thursday's deadline.

The north London side is also reportedly in negotiations for Sporting CP's Bruno Fernandes and Real Betis' Giovani Lo Celso.

Arsenal, meanwhile, continue to search for center-backs. Laurent Koscielny's move to Bordeaux earlier on Tuesday underscored the need for defensive reinforcements, with RB Leipzig's Dayot Upamecano and Juventus' Daniele Rugani reportedly on the club's short list.