Premier League giants Manchester United have received a big transfer boost in their quest to sign Barcelona midfielder Philippe Coutinho after it was revealed that Blaugrana manager Ernesto Valverde has given up on keeping the Brazilian at the Nou Camp beyond this season.
This is according to the publication from Spanish news outlet Sport (via Sky Sports) which claimed that Valverde is not hopeful that Coutinho will be at the club for the long haul.
Brazilian international playmaker Coutinho has struggled to make a big impact at Barcelona since his move from Premier League table toppers Liverpool in the last winter transfer window and that has led to transfer talks with clubs like Paris Saint Germain (PSG), Chelsea and Manchester United mentioned.
Philippe Coutinho joined Barcelona from Liverpool in a deal worth £142m thus making him the third most expensive footballer behind compatriot Neymar and Kylian Mbappe (both from PSG).
The 26-year-old has spent a lot of time on the Barcelona bench this season having failed to adapt to the style adopted by Ernesto Valverde.
He has scored just four League goals all season in addition to two assists.
The latest development could open up the possibility of a summer move to Manchester United.