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Messi: Barcelona star proposes three signings instead of Liverpool star Coutinho
LIONEL MESSI has reportedly proposed three signings for Barcelona instead of Liverpool's Philippe Coutinho.
Jason McAteer believes Philippe Coutinho will still join Barcelona
Barcelona remain interested in a deal for Coutinho despite Liverpool snubbing three bids for the Brazil international back in the summer.
With the Reds unlikely to challenge for the Premier League title this season, a parting of the ways in January could be on the cards.
But Spanish website Diario Gol says Lionel Messi has proposed Barcelona spend their money on one of three other players.
It is said the Argentina international would love for the club to sign Monaco winger Thomas Lemar.
The 21-year-old bagged 14 goals from 55 games but has struggled ever since a move to Arsenal collapsed back in the summer.
Reports earlier today said Messi was keen on him and it appears the player's interest in the Monaco star is genuine.
Diario Gol say Messi would also love for Barcelona to land Lyon hotshot Nabil Fekir.
Fekir caused controversy at the weekend where he celebrated a winner against Saint-Etienne by holding up his shirt to the home support.
But, with 12 goals in 15 games, the 24-year-old now has a reputation as one of the most promising players in world football.
Barcelona news: Lionel Messi has three Philippe Coutinho alternatives
Messi: Barcelona star admires Leicester's Riyad Mahrez
Meanwhile, Messi would not be opposed to Barcelona signing Riyad Mahrez.
Mahrez experienced a strange summer at Leicester, leaving the club on deadline day to complete a move to an unnamed club.
But a transfer never materialised and the Algeria international has been stuck at the King Power Stadium ever since.
Messi supposedly admires all three players because, like Coutinho, their versatility could benefit Barcelona.
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