Arsenal open to signing Coutinho, talks at initial stage

Arsenal are considering signing Philippe Coutinho, and their coach Mikel Arteta would be open to the transfer, Diario Sport claim. The Gunners believe that the 29-year-old could help them achieve the goals set for the season.

As for Barcelona, they are willing to part ways with the Brazilian, favouring a permanent transfer since Xavi does not count on him. Besides, Coutinho is the best-paid player at the club, and shipping him off would help the club register new players.

The talks are at the initial stage.

According to a previous report, Philippe's agent has been working in silence on finding him a new club for a while. The player rejected Barca's offer to reduce his salary last summer.

This term so far, Coutinho has played 16 games for Barca, five of them from the start, and has scored twice.

Source: Diario Sport