Barcelona interested in Ozil as Coutinho’s replacement

CAIRO – 31 July 2017: FC Barcelona is interested in purchasing German midfielder Mesut Ozil instead of Brazilian attacking midfielder Philippe Coutinho, ESPN reported Monday.

According to ESPN, Barcelona officials believe that Liverpool FC is not willing to sell Coutinho even though Barcelona is willing to pay a huge amount. Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp sees Coutinho as the cornerstone of his project with Liverpool and does not want to sell the player, the sports hub reported.

According to Spanish website Don Balon, Barcelona is hoping to sign Ozil, especially since the German national only has one year remaining with Arsenal FC and will most likely not renew his contract with the club. Arsenal officials will want some sort of financial gain out of Ozil’s transfer, especially after they bought Ozil for £42.5 million ($59.71).

FC Barcelona is looking to strengthen their midfield after failing to win the Spanish league and the Champions League last season.