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Barcelona boss Ernesto Valverde would rather sign Paulinho than Philippe Coutinho - report
BARCELONA would rather sign Tottenham reject Paulinho than Liverpool star Philippe Coutinho, according to reports.
Sublime assist shows why Barcelona want Liverpool's Coutinho
Barcelona are set to have a busy final month of the transfer window after selling Neymar to Paris Saint-Germain.
The Catalan giants are now armed with a warchest worth in the region of £200million - leading to talk they could be about to land a marquee name.
While the Neymar saga has been going on, Barcelona have been pressing ahead with plans to sign Liverpool star Coutinho.
The Brazil international is the top target among the club's hierarchy, having been identified as Andres Iniesta's long-term successor.
Barcelona may give up on Liverpool star Philippe Coutinho
But Spanish outlet Don Balon say he is not actually Ernesto Valverde's No1 choice.
Instead, he thinks Guangzhou Evergrande ace Paulinho would be a better fit.
The midfielder struggled in England during his time at Tottenham but has since rebuilt his reputation in the Far East.
Barcelona want Paulinho instead of Liverpool ace Philippe Coutinho
Liverpool star Philippe Coutinho has been regularly linked with a move to Barcelona
Valverde supposedly feels he would be a more solid option, with Coutinho a glamour purchase.
Barcelona may even prioritise Paulinho on Valverde's orders in a major boost for Liverpool.
The Reds have repeatedly insisted Coutinho will not be leaving Merseyside and Jurgen Klopp may get his wish.
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