Echo: Coutinho offer increased

Liverpool FC have increased their offer for Philippe Coutinho to 9million Euros (£7.6million) as they look to wrap up a deal for the Inter Milan attacking midfielder.

The Reds have been locked in negotiations with the Serie A outfit since their initial bid of 6million Euros (£5million) was rejected last week. Despite talks having dragged on, Liverpool remain confident that an agreement will be reached and they will finally secure the services of the 20-year-old Brazil international.

However, reports that managing director Ian Ayre flew to Italy yesterday to try to complete the transfer are untrue.
Coutinho, who has been hampered by a minor injury recently, was left out of the Inter squad for last night's Coppa Italia semi-final first leg against Roma as discussions over his future continue.

Talks will resume today and Liverpool are unconcerned about the prospect of interest from Southampton driving up the price as the player favours a move to Anfield.

Boss Brendan Rodgers hopes the exciting youngster, who can play in central midfield, out wide or in the No 10 role as a second striker, will become his second signing of the January transfer window following the arrival of Daniel Sturridge.

Coutinho signed for Inter from Vasco da Gama for 4million Euros when he was just 16 but remained in Brazil for a further two years before moving to Italy in 2010.

He enjoyed a successful spell on loan at Espanyol last season but since returning to Inter his chances have been limited. He has started just three Serie A matches this season and has made 10 league appearances in total. 

Source: Liverpool Echo