ARSENAL are reportedly closing in on the loan signing of Philippe Coutinho from Barcelona with talks said to be at an advanced stage.
SunSport reported last week how the Gunners were in negotiations with the Blaugrana about a season-long loan, with the two clubs to share the burden of paying the Brazilian’s wages.
And Sport have now claimed that the North Londoners are on the verge of securing Coutinho’s services.
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Mikel Arteta is understood to be a huge fan of the playmaker, with the Spanish news outlet stating Arsenal ‘love’ Coutinho’s talents.
The 28-year-old – who has spent the 2019/20 season on loan at Bayern Munich – has been deemed as surplus to requirements at the Nou Camp.
In 34 games for the Bavarian outfit this campaign, Coutinho has chipped in with nine goals and eight assists.
Barca are desperate to get the ex-Liverpool star off their wage bill having been hugely affected by the coronavirus crisis.
Club president Josep Bartomeu revealed Barca have lost a staggering £180million in just four months due to the lack of supporters coming through the gates.
Coutinho could be joined by his Brazilian compatriot Willian at the Emirates, with the winger set to leave Chelsea on a free transfer.
The 31-year-old rejected a two-year contract from the Blues, with all signs now pointing towards an imminent exit away from Stamford Bridge.
And it has been claimed that Arsenal have a three-year deal on the table for the former Shakhtar Donestsk star.
Both Coutinho and Willian share the same agent in Kia Joorabchian, who was instrumental in David Luiz signing a new deal at Arsenal.
