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Liverpool backed to complete surprise January transfer because of Philippe Coutinho
Philippe Coutinho could surprisingly help former club Liverpool complete a big January signing.
Thomas Muller: Bayern Munich star is 'top performer' says expert
Philippe Coutinho could have a big hand in Liverpool signing Bayern Munich star Thomas Muller.
That’s the opinion of German football expert Kevin Hatchard.
Speaking to the Liverpool Echo’s Blood Red podcast, the pundit explained he believes there is a possibility that Liverpool could land German attacker Muller.
The Bayern Munich star has seen his game time limited this season after the arrival of Coutinho.
The Brazilian joined Bayern on loan this summer after being pushed out of the team at Barcelona. Just 18 months after he joined from Liverpool, he had found himself used as a bit-part substitute.
He seems to be enjoying life in the Bundesliga, however, as he has played 90 minutes in the last three games, scoring twice and providing two assists.
But his minutes have come at Muller’s expense, and Hatchard believes this could drive Muller to the Premier League.
Manchester United have been heavily linked with Muller, but Liverpool previously tried to sign him in 2017, and the German football expert believes the Reds could go back in for him.
“I think there is a genuine discomfort for Muller at the moment because he’s been on the bench for the last five games,” he said.
“People go on about his goal output has dropped, but you look at the assists, he is still very much involved in a lot of the good stuff Bayern can do.
"He’s in a position he’s never really been in at Bayern which is somebody who is having to really scrap for a starting spot.
“The arrival of Coutinho has put him under pressure because Muller operates in that No.10 role. It’s probably the biggest challenge of Muller’s career.
“I still think he is a very, very good footballer and any top Premier League team would benefit from having him in the building.
“The fluid nature of it would appeal to Muller, without question because his movement is incredible.
"He’s so elusive, he picks up positions a lot of players simply don’t and I think he’d be a huge boost to Liverpool.
“I think Premier League clubs will be on alert.”