Barcelona manager Ronald Koeman plans to deal transfer blow to Arsenal and Mikel Arteta

Barcelona manager Ronald Koeman is set to deal a transfer blow to Arsenal as the summer window heats up. The Nou Camp icon has begun work on revamping the under-achieving squad he has inherited from Quique Setien.
Barcelona's transfer policy in recent years has left a lot to be desired and contributed to the club's dramatic downfall, which was brutally laid bare by Bayern Munich in the 8-2 Champions League quarter-final thrashing.
Philippe Coutinho, the club's most expensive signing, made a late cameo appearance off the bench for Bayern to grab two goals and an assist to rub salt into the wounds.

Barcelona failed to see the best of Coutinho before loaning him to the Bundesliga giants for the 2019/20 campaign and are prepared to flog him in this transfer window to cut their losses and raise funds.

Arsenal are keen on the former Liverpool playmaker, who moved to the Nou Camp for a deal worth up to £142million in January 2018, with Mikel Arteta interested in bringing the Brazilian back to the Premier League.


Barcelona news: Ronald Koeman plans to keep Arsenal target Philippe Coutinho

A second chance at Barcelona could now be on the cards, however.

According to Mundo Deportivo , Koeman wants him to form part of his squad for next season.
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The Dutchman, who was given a two-year contract by the club following Setien's dismissal, plans to speak to Coutinho following tonight's Champions League final between Bayern and PSG .
Koeman is reportedly concerned about the midfield options at his disposal and the lack of funds available to strengthen the engine room so bringing Coutinho back into the fold makes sense.

He could also be given the chance to finally play the position previously occupied by Andres Iniesta.

Coutinho was signed as the legendary midfielder's long-term successor but was regularly played out of position before the fans and press turned against him.

He is likely to start on Bayern's bench for the showpiece against PSG so Koeman could be waiting a while to see him in action.

Speaking about his future, Coutinho said: "My mind is fully focused on the competition. It's a unique opportunity for us. I'm very happy to be in the Champions League final."

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