Liverpool Transfer News: Barca Chase Philippe Coutinho, Ryan Sessegnon Rumours

Barcelona have held talks with Liverpool over the transfer of Philippe Coutinho as they attempt to revamp their team for next season.

According to Spanish newspaper Sport (h/t Jamie Styles of the Daily Star), Barcelona's recent poor form has "prompted the Camp Nou hierarchy into action." The Brazil international recently committed his future to the Anfield club, signing a new five-year deal to remain on Merseyside, but Barca are reportedly just a "final step" from capturing Coutinho.

The player appeared to have dispelled any thoughts of leaving in January, when he signed a new contract.

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Per James Carroll of Liverpool's official website, Coutinho said:

"

I am very happy to sign a new contract here. It is a club that I am very grateful to and this shows my happiness here. I will work much harder to repay the belief shown in me.

I signed this new contract to stay here for a few more years because it’s a great honour for me. It gives me great happiness because I was welcomed here with open arms by everyone at the club and the supporters right from my first day. I am very thankful to this football club for everything.

"

Coutinho has been a vital component of the Reds cause this term, scoring 10 goals and providing eight assists in 30 Premier League appearances, per Styles.

Football writer Jack Lusby explained there was no stipulated release agreement in the Brazilian's deal:

In other news, teenage sensation Ryan Sessegnon will not be available for Liverpool to buy in the forthcoming transfer window after a string of impressive displays for Fulham.

According to Neil Jones of the Liverpool Echo, the west London club have confirmed they intend to retain the player.

Fulham boss Slavisa Jokanovic said, per Jones: "Sessegnon will not be in the transfer market in the summer."

Here is Sessegnon in action:

The 16-year-old has shown promise beyond his years and could develop into an England international in little time.

His ability to play as a full-back or winger makes him a dangerous and versatile prospect, and Jones reported Sessegnon is ready to pen "a professional contract" with the Cottagers.

Sessegnon's reputation has exploded in the past 12 months, and it is inconceivable he will not be in the Premier League in the near future.

It would be wise for him to stay in the lower leagues next term, allowing him to play at a good standard while completing 90 minutes on a regular basis—though there is a possibility Fulham could be promoted via the Championship play-offs.