Coutinho ‘extremely happy’, wants Liverpool stay

Matt Stead

Philippe Coutinho is “extremely happy” at Liverpool and not looking to leave despite reports of interest from Barcelona and Real Madrid, according to his agent.

Coutinho has been regularly linked with both Barcelona and Real Madrid in recent weeks, while Barca star Neymar admitted he would like to see his countryman join the Nou Camp outfit in the near future.

And Manchester City have now been added to the potential list of suitors for Coutinho, according to the Daily Mirror.

The Brazilian is seen as one of Liverpool’s best players and, having signed a new five-year contract earlier this year, would likely command a huge fee if he was to leave Anfield.

However, the 23-year-old’s agent, Kia Joorabchian (remember him?) has dismissed claims that the midfielder wants to leave the club, saying he is “extremely happy” there.

“Philippe is extremely happy at Liverpool,” Joorabchian said. “He signed a new long term contract towards the end of last season that represents his ambition and his feeling for Liverpool.

“Reports that I have been talking to Real Madrid about Philippe are not true.

“His aspirations are to qualify for the Champions League with Liverpool this season and to win a trophy. That is all that he is focussed on – and nothing else.”