Koeman tells Barcelona board to keep Arsenal target Coutinho

Philippe Coutinho could be handed a clean slate at Barcelona – should Ronald Koeman take charge.

Barca are in talks with the Dutch federation about releasing Koeman from his contract. After axing Quique Setien on Monday evening, Barca want to install Koeman as new coach.

And El Periodico says among his plans, Koeman wishes to hold onto Coutinho. The midfielder is currently on-loan with Bayern Munich and in talks about a move away.

However, Koeman wants to work with the Brazilian and is planning an attack next season which would see Coutinho alongside Lionel Messi and Antoine Griezmann.

Barca’s board are in agreement and would only part with Coutinho now if an offer of €80m arrives.