It’s hard to get too excited until a takeover is signed, sealed and delivered, but some big claims have emerged from Spain regarding Phillipe Coutinho.
This comes from Mundo Deportivo – the outlet who first credited us with an interest in the Brazilian should a £300m Saudi-backed buyout go through.
They claim that the 27-year-old is willing to make a shock move to St James’ Park, but only if the would-be new owners bring in Mauricio Pochettino – the man who’s understood to be their ‘no.1 target’ to replace Steve Bruce if you believe Sky Sports.
The same piece also states that Barcelona will ask £80m for the ex-Liverpool star, stating there’s a deal to be done if the Saudis appoint Poch and pay Barca’s price tag.
A huge fee and a player who could, let’s face it, join a much bigger club, however it goes without saying that the silly-rich Saudis would be looking to make a big statement signings should they get the keys to St James’ Park.
Pinch of salt needed – this may be nonsense and them putting 2 and 2 together – but another reason to pray this £300m deal does go through over the coming few days!