Barcelona prepare to sell two players as Philippe Coutinho deal moves closer

Coutinho looks set to join Barcelona during the January transfer window after claims that he’s on strike at Liverpool.

And Don Balon say at least two players will be heading out the door.

Rafinha and Andre Gomes are the players mentioned who could be on their way.

Speculation of a move for Coutinho has ramped up after he was left out of the squad for the New Year’s Day game with Burnley and Nike started selling Barcelona shirts with his name on.

Barcelona had wanted to sign Coutinho in the summer but saw three bids knocked back.

But they will come back in with another bid this month and hope to have the deal wrapped up as early as this week.

Sport have reported that Coutinho has gone on strike and will not play while talks rumble on.

Sky Sports La Liga expert Guillem Balague thinks a move is now likely to happen this month.

“Coutinho will not be “fit” for the FA Cup game on Friday vs Everton,” Balague tweeted.

“On future: LFC’s tone has changed -it seems they are open to all the options. Sell now, sell now for the summer. Keeping him beyond then seems the very last option. 

“But no offer from FBC has arrived… yet.”

And now Barca appear to be moving players on to make space. Barca lead La Liga by nine points at the halfway stage but they are still keen to strengthen this month.

Coutinho is their No 1 target while Antoine Griezmann is also on their radar.