Newcastle United are expected to be taken over by a Saudi consortium, and it’s seen endless rumours in the European media, going back a few weeks.
Since then, the Magpies have been linked with big money signings and Barcelona’s Philippe Coutinho was discussed as one of the targets.
Sport now states the La Liga winners have already been approached by consultants representing a group, who are already working for the Magpies’ new management.
It’s claimed the Camp Nou side have not received a firm offer for the former Liverpool star.
Barca believe the operation is unlikely to go through because the Brazil international isn’t enthusiastic about the possibility of moving to St James’ Park.
In addition to this, Newcastle are aware the Catalan club will not let the player leave without a permanent transfer and to complete it, they are demanding a €90m fee.
Quique Setién has publicly praised the 27-year-old and the report adds the manager intends to include Coutinho in his plans for next season, once he returns from his loan spell at Bayern Munich.
The player is also excited about the prospect of playing again for Barcelona.
Should the South American be allowed to leave in the summer, Sport’s report gives an indication the chances of Coutinho ending up at Newcastle look very slim.
