Could Barcelona’s Philippe Coutinho land a transfer to Arsenal?

Since failing at Barcelona after making the switch from Anfield to the Camp Nou, Philippe Coutinho has always been the subject of an exit. During this time, he has been linked with a return to the Premier League — and not with former club Liverpool — but with rivals Arsenal.

One of Liverpool’s many gems signed and sold in recent years, Philippe Coutinho saw his talent and quality drop when transferring to Barcelona, but should a move transpire to the Emirates, would his performances improve while playing under Mikel Arteta?

Coutinho, 29, has been rumored to be on the way out of Barcelona since he has not become the best version that landed him a spot at the Camp Nou from Liverpool. Several factors like injuries, multiple managerial changes, and lack of minutes are all to blame for his lack of form. Could making a move to Arsenal be the right move? It can certainly be.

What’s in it for Arteta if Coutinho joins?

Under Mikel Arteta, Arsenal is now fourth in the Premier League standings. Things have turned around positively for the North London side — for a side that started the season with three straight losses.

His side has improved; indeed, a team like the Gunners is the best spot for Coutinho to develop further as a player and go back to his old self.

They have many young players performing well in this new system of tactics under Arteta. A bit of experience could help if Coutinho is introduced into the mix. A player surrounded by a different system and different game pace can help the process.

A lot of money spent by Barca, not much of a return

Coutinho cost Barcelona €135.00m but because of several poor displays, his market value decreased quickly and Barcelona fans started to become unhappy with his performances.

Barca could still get some money from a future sale, rather than avoid waiting for his contract to expire in 2023 and he leaves the Catalan club for free.

The club needs money and a deal in the winter transfer window would suit all parties involved. This season, the Brazilian starlet has appeared 12 times, 5 of them being starts, scoring 2 goals and providing 0 assists — really low numbers compared to what he achieved at Liverpool.

Arsenal is in a Champions League position in the Premier League, meaning they could need the extra quality in depth for next season, and this presents the perfect opportunity for a trial run.

What if it’s not Arsenal?

Other Premier League sides have been surrounding Coutinho:  Everton, Newcastle, and even Liverpool are entering the mix. This upcoming January, a move to the Premier League might be his only destination, so the right question now is… How much will Barcelona get for him?

It is unclear if the decision will take place in January. Rumors say otherwise. However, his contract is due to expire in June, so his future will be decided on sooner rather than later.