Barcelona are eyeing up Liverpool star Roberto Firmino as a long-term replacement for striker Luis Suarez, according to a Spanish journalist.
Eduardo Inda, editor of OK Diario, claimed on TV Show ‘El Chiringuito’ that the Blaugrana are already laying the groundwork to move for the 27-year-old, with Suarez’s form nosediving recently.
It is said that former Reds star Philippe Coutinho recommended Firmino to the Catalan giants, with the international teammates having played together at Anfield before his big-money move last January.
Barcelona are reportedly aiming to bring Firmino in for next season, meaning a summer move is likely.
OPINION
Losing Firmino to Barcelona would be a huge blow for Liverpool, with the Brazilian now one of the first names on the team sheet for manager Jurgen Klopp. The 27-year-old put up some ridiculous numbers last season with 27 goals and 17 assists in all competitions, and while his form this term hasn’t been as good so far, his all-round game is a huge asset for the Reds up front. It is no wonder therefore that Barcelona want to sign him, as do probably many other top clubs. There are obviously concerns over former Liverpool star Suarez up front, with his relationship with the club seemingly deteriorating. The most frustrating thing about this story, if true, is if Coutinho did actually recommend Firmino. Losing Coutinho to Barcelona in January was bad enough, but to lose Firmino just a year-and-a-half later would be a major blow for the Reds, who are on the verge of something special under Klopp.
