Liverpool Transfer News: Fresh Philippe Coutinho Comments, Leon Goretzka Rumours

Philippe Coutinho has said he is "happy" at Liverpool after further speculation has linked him with a move to Barcelona.

According to Louis Sealey of Metro, the attacker declared he is content at Anfield despite missing out on a move to La Liga.

"I'm playing in one of the biggest leagues in the world," said Coutinho. "I'm always happy. At the moment I am very happy with my life."

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Per Sealey, Barca are expected to bid for the Brazil international once again when the January transfer window opens for business. Barcelona chief executive Oscar Grau named the Reds star as he discussed his team's position to enter the market.

"We are ready to buy Coutinho in the winter market or any player the technical staff request," said Grau. "But it is important to adjust ourselves, so if there are to be arrivals, there must be exits as well."

Diario Gol (h/t Jack Rathborn of the Daily Mirror) reported Coutinho will become Barca's third-highest earner at the Camp Nou behind Lionel Messi and Luis Suarez if Liverpool sell the player.

The 25-year-old has been hampered by minor injury this term but has registered four goals and three assists in eight games in the Premier League and Europe, according to WhoScored.com.

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In other Reds news, Liverpool and Chelsea are in prime position to capture Germany starlet Leon Goretzka.

Catalan newspaper Sport (h/t Jack Otway of the Daily Express) reported the Premier League sides have taken the lead in the race to capture the Schalke player after firm interest from Bayern Munich and Barcelona. Goretzka can leave his club in the summer as a free agent, with his current deal ready to expire.

With Coutinho continually linked with a move away from Merseyside, Goretzka could be the perfect replacement. Schalke might feel forced to cash in on the 22-year-old, sparking a scramble in January if they desire a fee.

Corriere dello Sport (h/t Calciomercato.com's Nima Tavallaey Roodsari) reported AC Milan wish to speak to the Germany international in January in an attempt to tie him to a pre-contract agreement.

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Per Otway, Germany general manager Oliver Bierhoff hinted the player could soon find his way to England:

"We feel that England, because of the amount of money you have with TV rights, young talented players like Leroy Sane and [Schalke's] Leon Goretzka are moving to England and this is not good for our league but also for the quality of our game."

Goretzka has steadily developed into one of Europe's hottest talents, and he will be desired by many top sides if he can be captured without a transfer fee.

The midfielder can play within a number of tactical roles in a team, making him a diverse signing for a successful club.

As Coutinho's future hangs in the balance, it would be no surprise if Liverpool coach Jurgen Klopp turns to his young compatriot to fill the void.

Goretzka could develop into the complete midfielder, giving Klopp a cornerstone to build upon over the forthcoming years.