Jurgen Klopp Says Philippe Coutinho Isn't for Sale Amid Barcelona Transfer Talk

Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp has made it clear Philippe Coutinho is not for sale this summer amid speculation he is a transfer target for Barcelona.

The Brazilian has been strongly linked with a move to the Camp Nou, with Lluis Miguelsanz of Sport suggesting the player is keen on the switch. 

But speaking on Monday ahead of the team's appearance at the Audi Cup, Klopp made Liverpool's stance clear, per James Pearce of the Liverpool Echo:

As reported by Andy Hunter of the Guardian, Liverpool have already rejected a £72 million offer from the Blaugrana this summer, although it's noted Barcelona are ready to make an even higher bid.

Liverpool defender Jamie Carragher expressed caution recently to 5timesco when asked how long he felt Coutinho would remain on Merseyside for:

Even so, it appears Klopp and other key figures at Anfield are unwilling to buckle under any pressure from Barcelona. After all, Coutinho is the vital component in the Reds' attacking play.

The Brazilian can play in a number of different positions, whether that be in an advanced berth on the left or deeper in midfield. But wherever he is on the pitch, he tends to have an impact with his silky dribbling, close control and brilliant vision.

What makes Coutinho extra special is his ability to blend those intricate talents with a hammer of a shot, meaning he is such a threat in so many different zones.

Per OptaJoe, since arriving in the Premier League he's conjured some spectacular moments:

In terms of finances, there's no pressure on the Reds to cash in, as Coutinho signed a long-term contract with the club earlier in the year. Still, Barcelona are a tantalising proposition for any footballer.

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After all, the Blaugrana were able prise Luis Suarez away from Liverpool in 2013 and, typically, if they want a player, they will get him. With Neymar strongly linked with a €222 million move to Paris Saint-Germain, per Saj Chowdhury of BBC Sport, there's a chance the Blaugrana will have money to burn, too.

There's no doubt Liverpool will be desperate to keep hold of their No. 10, as he is now one of the most effective and intelligent attacking midfielders in football. It'll be fascinating to see just how much Barcelona are willing to offer in an attempt to break the Reds' resolve.