Report: Coutinho prepared to stop playing for Liverpool

Philippe Coutinho is reportedly determined to force a transfer to Barcelona.

According to Mundo Deportivo's Roger Torello, Coutinho is ready to stop taking the pitch for Liverpool. The Brazilian midfielder apparently doesn't want to miss the opportunity to play for Barcelona, and, at the risk of jeopardising his spot at the 2018 World Cup, will do the maximum to force the Reds to let him leave, since his decision to represent the Blaugrana is "more than taken."

Coutinho allegedly submitted a transfer request, but Liverpool said he missed the first leg of the Reds' tie against TSG 1899 Hoffenheim on Tuesday due to a back injury. He reportedly believes he's always been honest and shown his respect for the English club and its supporters, which is why, after asking formally and amicably, he's raised his tone and is ready to sit in the stands all season if his exit isn't facilitated.

The product of Vasco da Gama remains on Barcelona's wish list and the Catalan club is pushing hard to bring the footballer to Catalonia before the summer transfer window closes, reports Marca's Xavi Hernandez. Coutinho was apparently high on the list before the €222-million transfer of Neymar was even considered, but Liverpool is standing firm after turning down a €100-million bid.

"I prefer to not think of (Coutinho leaving) because it would be awful," Roberto Firmino said Tuesday. "He's a great player but also a great friend to me. It is normal that great teams are interested in his football but my concentration is now on the team."

Coutinho tallied 13 goals and seven assists in the Premier League last season.